For people living with diabetes, footwear isn't just about comfort—it's a critical part of preventative health care. The right shoes can help prevent ulcers, infections, and the serious complications that affect millions of diabetic patients each year.
Why This Matters
Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations in Australia. Up to 85% of these amputations start with a foot ulcer—most of which are preventable with proper foot care and appropriate footwear.
Understanding Diabetic Foot Risk
Diabetes affects your feet in two main ways:
Peripheral Neuropathy
Nerve damage causes loss of sensation. You may not feel blisters, cuts, or pressure injuries until they become serious. This is why seamless footwear interiors and proper fit are crucial.
Poor Circulation
Reduced blood flow slows healing and fights infection less effectively. Even minor injuries can develop into chronic wounds. Footwear that doesn't restrict circulation is essential.
Types of Diabetic Footwear
1. Medical-Grade Diabetic Shoes
Prefabricated therapeutic shoes designed specifically for diabetic feet. Features include:
- Extra depth to accommodate custom insoles
- Wide toe boxes that don't compress
- Seamless, soft interiors to prevent rubbing
- Firm heel counters for stability
2. Custom Diabetic Footwear
Made specifically for your feet when prefabricated options can't provide adequate protection. Recommended for:
- Previous foot ulcers or amputations
- Charcot foot or severe deformity
- Feet that don't fit standard sizes
- When maximum pressure redistribution is needed
3. Custom Insoles/Orthoses
Often used with medical-grade or custom shoes, custom orthoses provide:
- Pressure redistribution away from high-risk areas
- Total contact support that matches your foot contours
- Specialized materials for cushioning and protection
Risk Categories & Footwear Recommendations
| Risk Level | Characteristics | Footwear Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Low Risk | No neuropathy, normal circulation | Good quality supportive footwear, education |
| Moderate Risk | Neuropathy present, no history of ulcers | Medical-grade footwear + custom orthoses |
| High Risk | Previous ulcer or deformity | Custom footwear with moulded insoles |
| Very High Risk | Active ulcer, Charcot, amputation | Specialized custom footwear, close monitoring |
Daily Foot Care Tips
Protect Your Feet Every Day
- 1.Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling
- 2.Never walk barefoot—even at home
- 3.Check inside shoes for objects before wearing
- 4.Wear clean, dry socks—preferably diabetic-specific
- 5.Keep feet moisturized (not between toes)
- 6.See your podiatrist/pedorthist regularly
Funding Options
Diabetic footwear may be funded through several pathways:
- NDIS – For participants with disability-related foot needs
- DVA – For eligible veterans (Gold and White Card)
- Private Health Insurance – Many funds cover orthotics/footwear
- EnableNSW – For eligible NSW residents not on NDIS