Diabetic Shoes - Southernmost Foot & Ankle Specialists

F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Diabetic Foot And Dr. Zen Shoes.

Why buy a diabetic shoe?

Proper foot care is an important part of diabetes management. In fact, diabetics are at an extremely increased risk of serious foot disorders. Foot problems are the most common diabetes complication leading to hospitalizations. Ulcers or sores on the feet can be caused by improper shoe gear that can result in infection and possible amputations.

Can a diabetic shoe help?

Studies show that the well fitted diabetic shoes with moldable insoles reduce the development of these ulcers and sores. By starting preventative measures early, it is possible to avoid later foot complications and will enable you to maintain an independent active lifestyle. This is why the Dr. Zen Shoes and Insoles are an excellent first step towards better foot health.

Who should wear Dr. Zen prescription shoes?

The condition of your feet is addressed by the physician who is familiar with the patient. Dr. Zen Shoes are for the patient at risk for foot complications. Especially if the patient already has any type of mild foot deformity, ulcer or amputation. Nothing can replace the experience in the shoe designed by Dr. Zen.

What is a comfortable prescription shoe?

The prescription shoes should have enough room to accommodate the foot. It should also be roomy enough for any deformities present. Shoe should be designed to have support on the plantar (sole) surface to cushion high pressure areas. Poorly fitted footwear is one of the commonest causes of ulceration. Dr. Zen Therapeutic Shoes meet all of these specifications.

How often should I wear my Dr. Zen prescription shoes?

Patients at risk must use correct footwear at all times. Inappropriate footwear is a common cause of skin ulcers. DR. ZEN shoes can be prescribed by a foot care specialist or a primary care physician.

The correct shoe should be worn for different activities. If the correct shoe is not available for the activity, the diabetic should not participate in that activity. DR. ZEN shoes are great for comfort and style, as well as the therapeutic value. Most activities can be enjoyed with the DR. ZEN diabetic shoe.

So, I should wear my shoes ALL the time?

Shoes MUST be worn all of the time. Anytime there is weight on the feet, indoors or out, a proper fitted shoe should be worn. A shoe should be worn, even for trips to the bathroom at night. The diabetic patient should sit in a chair in the shower, rather than stand without shoes. Swim shoes are recommended for pool activities. Activities, such as running, tennis, baseball, and other sports that produce high stress on the feet should be avoided entirely. Bicycle is a good over all exercise that does not require foot stress. The diabetic patient should check his/her feet at least twice a day for ulcerations.

Can my primary care physician write the prescription?

The footwear for the diabetic patient is prescribed by a doctor. Most patients who are at risk for complications are referred to a foot care professional for routine nail and callus care. Footwear issues are typically addressed by the professional who performs these services. Many times however, the primary care clinician becomes involved in the footwear prescription and/or assessment. The primary care physician is not always "up to speed" as to the principles of proper diabetic footwear. We will be glad to talk to your doctor to explain the benefits of DR. ZEN shoes.

My feet swell. Will Dr. Zen diabetic shoes help?

Diabetic feet tend to swell at different times of the day. DR. ZEN shoes have a Velcro closure to allow this adjustment and leave enough room for the swelling. Compression Socks can be worn also, for extra support for high volume swelling.

What about insoles for diabetic feet?

Leather shoes without these insoles can be as bad as walking barefooted. The insoles must have enough room for the toes. The insole should be changed every 4-6 months, or when it appears worn-out. This should be fitted by a professional. DR. ZEN prescription insoles are recommended with the DR. ZEN shoe.

What is the insole made of, and why?

Diabetic Insoles are typically made of ALIPLAST or PPT/Plastizote. PROCELL has a number of advantages over ALIPLAST or PPT/Plastizote and other more open materials. The closer structure of PROCELL reduces impression and keeps the orthosis from bottoming out. The material is less abrasive to the surface skin. The protection and cushioning of the foot reduces friction and evenly distributes weight throughout the orthosis. The contoured design ensures a good fit inside DR. ZEN THERAPEUTIC SHOES. This insole should be changed 2-3 times a year.

Is surgery the answer?

Patients who will not use proper foot wear, many times will have surgery to try to "CURE" the problem. Surgery does NOT cure the problem. Surgery can "repair" clawed toes, remove exostoses (bony growth caused by trauma) on toes, correct hallux valgus (bending of big toe inward), reconstruct Charcot feet, and lengthen the Achilles tendon. Surgery offers relief to patients with good circulation and neuropath ulceration that will not stay healed because the patient refuses to wear a proper fit shoe. But some of the problems being repaired by surgery can reoccur, so proper shoes are imperative. The comfort of a DR. ZEN shoe will be recognized fast and make it enjoyable to walk again.
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