What is an Orthosis?
An Orthosis is an external device used to support, align, reduce or correct deformities.
Diabetes and Orthotics
People with diabetes, neuropathy (loss of sensation) and foot deformities (bunions etc) are at risk of serious complications if the correct footwear is not used. Using the right footwear that accommodates the shape of your feet with an insole that reduces the forces going through the bony areas of your feet can help reduce these complications.
The aims of footwear and insoles for people with diabetes are:
- To relieve high pressure areas on the feet
- To reduce the risk of rubbing
- To accommodate deformities associated with diabetes
The Orthotist you see will be able to assess your feet and provide advice about suitable footwear and insoles based on your ulcer risk level and foot shape.
Your checklist
Have you checked:
- The top of your foot for redness/rubs/hard skin
- The bottom of your foot for redness/rubs/hard skin
- The sides of your feet for redness/rubs/hard skin
- The insole of your shoe for any marks
- The insole is in the shoe and is not too far forward/back
- The insides and linings of your shoes
- The fastenings are secure so your foot doesn’t slide around in the shoe
If red marks on your skin that do not fade after 30 minutes or any cuts, blisters or changes in skin colour or swelling, contact your podiatrist or doctor urgently if there are any.
Repairs
The Orthotics department are able to repair your footwear as and when needed. Some cobblers/shoe repairers will be able to repair your footwear but we advise you to use our services when your shoes have adaptions to the sole units. This is to ensure that the modifications are not altered once the soles are replaced.
Do’s and don’ts to get the most from your footwear
Do - Check the condition of your footwear on a regular basis
Do - Check inside your shoes for damage to the insoles or to the linings of the shoes
Do - Check your skin after wearing your footwear
Do - Bring your footwear in for regular repair
Don't - Attempt to adjust your own footwear
Don't - Throw away your footwear unless told to do so by a qualified Orthotist
Highstreet footwear
People with a low ulceration risk can fit and protect their feet with highstreet footwear options. This along with regular foot checks will help prevent complications.
There are good types and bad types of footwear. We recommend following the advice below when shopping for shoes.
- Size: There should be a 12mm (1/2inch) gap from your toes to the ends of the shoe in standing
- Width: Good width across the widest part of your foot. Avoid pointed-toe shoes. Wide fitting ranges may be more suitable
- Depth: Soft uppers with good depth at the front of the shoe should leave enough room for your toes.
- Fastening: Avoid slip-on shoes where possible
- Insole: Removable inner sole to allow for more room
- Heel: Avoiding narrow heels and too high or too low heels. Shoes should be no higher than 30mm (1¼")
- Soles: Durable sole units that should provide good grip and shock absorption but should not be over flexible
- Seams- check inside the shoes. Avoid styles with prominent seams