The diabetic foot – how Footlogics orthotics can help

A great number of diabetics will develop foot problems related to the disease. Diabetic foot conditions develop from a combination of causes including poor circulation and neuropathy. Diabetic Neuropathy can cause insensitivity or a loss of ability to feel pain, heat and cold.

Diabetics suffering from neuropathy can quite easily develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that they may not be aware of due to the insensitivity. Poor shoe fit, excessive pressure and friction often go undetected. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation! Neuropathy can also cause deformities such as bunions, hammer toes and Charcot Foot.

The importance of a proper shoe fit

To avoid friction, stress and pressure sores, you must have shoes that fit properly.  For optimal support, make sure your shoe matches the length and width of your foot and that it provides an appropriate heel counter.  Also ensure that there aren’t any obtrusive seams or stitching inside because this will cause rubbing and chafing against your foot.

For diabetics with an existing foot condition therapeutic footwear is often prescribed by a doctor or podiatrist and fitted by a qualified pedorthist. Private health funds cover part or all of the cost of special diabetic footwear.

Orthotic insoles for Diabetic Foot

Most diabetics do not require customised diabetic footwear. Instead, a diabetic insole is fitted to prevent foot conditions from developing. Prevention is better than cure: it can save hundreds of dollars and a lot of unnecessary suffering.

Diabetic orthotics help to avoid pressure sores from developing as a result of friction inside the shoe. A common contributing cause of excess friction and pressure on the foot is over-pronation (rolling in of the foot and flattening of the arches).

Over-pronation leads to poor foot function and friction under the ball of the foot, on the outer edge of the big toe joint and on top of any of the five toe joints.

Orthotics help prevent over-pronation and they evenly distribute body weight over the entire surface of the foot, thereby reducing friction and pressure.

Diabetic insoles are covered with a layer of Plastazote©. It is the material of choice for podiatrists, as it conforms rapidly to the individual’s foot, providing a glove-fit which limits rubbing and potential blister or ulcer formation. Orthotic insoles for diabetics can be custom-made or store-bought from your pharmacy. Please see overleaf for more information.

Helpful footcare tips for Diabetics

Follow these useful tip to protect your feet:

inspect your feet on a daily basis
look for signs of sores, swelling, discoloration, cuts and blisters. Use a mirror to see the bottom of your feet, if need be.
keep your feet clean. Wash with warm water with a mildly concentrated soap and dry with care, particularly between your toes.
in dry skin areas, use lotion but never between your toes (use foot powder between your toes).
keep your toenails trimmed and make cuts straight across the top of the nail (contact a podiatrist or pedicurist for assistance).
change your socks or stockings every day
avoid tight elastics on your socks – seamless, fitted socks are best.

Footlogics Sensi – orthotics for Diabetes

Developed by Australian podiatrists, Footlogics Sensi orthotics are shaped to accurately match the plantar surface (underside) of the foot, evenly distributing the forces of walking to protect sensitive areas from excess pressure and friction.

The orthotic gently supports the foot, aligning the foot to its natural position. The medical-grade Plastazote© top layer is non-allergic and provides maximum cushioning.

This makes Footlogics Sensi the ideal footbed for people with Diabetes. The insole also provides excellent walking comfort for arthritis sufferers and people with sensitive feet.

NOTE: If pain persist we recommend you consult a health professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Visit the Australian Podiatrists Association to find your local podiatrist.