Choosing the right shoes for a diabetic patient is not a luxury but a vital medical necessity — improper footwear is the leading cause of diabetic foot ulcers. Studies show that 40-50% of foot ulcers result from shoe pressure.
Ideal Shoe Specifications:
- Size: Buy in the evening when the foot is at its largest. There should be one finger-width (1 cm) between the longest toe and shoe tip.
- Width: Wide enough to accommodate the foot without any side pressure. Round or square-toed shoes are better than pointed ones.
- Depth: Deep enough to accommodate a custom insole.
- Material: Soft natural leather that breathes and stretches with the foot. Avoid hard synthetic materials.
- Closure: Laces or Velcro — allows adjustment of tightness. Avoid slip-on shoes.
- Sole: Thick, flexible, and non-slip. Absorbs shock and protects from sharp objects.
What to Avoid:
High heels, open sandals, walking barefoot even at home.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we recommend specialized medical footwear and custom insoles tailored to foot shape.