Proper foot care is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity. Diabetes often leads to neuropathy (nerve damage) and poor circulation, which increase the risk of foot injuries, ulcers, and infections. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), up to 25% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point in their lives, and improper footwear is a leading contributor to these issues (American Diabetes Association, 2020).
In this article, we’ll explore five key signs that it’s time to replace your diabetic shoes, backed by scientific research and expert recommendations.
Why Are Diabetic Shoes Important?
Research shows that wearing appropriate footwear significantly reduces the risk of foot complications in people with diabetes. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that specialized diabetic shoes reduced plantar pressure by up to 30%, minimizing the risk of ulcer formation (Bus et al., 2016). These shoes are engineered with features like extra cushioning, seamless interiors, and a roomy fit to prevent friction and irritation.
However, even high-quality diabetic shoes have a lifespan. Here are five scientifically-backed signs that indicate it’s time for an upgrade:
Visible Wear and Tear
One of the most obvious signs that your diabetic shoes need replacing is visible damage. Cracks in the sole, frayed stitching, or worn-down tread can compromise the shoe’s ability to protect your feet.
Why It Matters: A study in Diabetes Care highlights that compromised footwear increases the risk of foot ulcers, particularly in individuals with peripheral neuropathy (Armstrong et al., 2017). Damaged shoes no longer provide adequate shock absorption or stability, leaving your feet vulnerable to injury.
Pro Tip: Inspect your shoes regularly, especially if you wear them daily. Even small cracks can lead to significant problems.
Loss of Cushioning or Support
Over time, the cushioning and arch support in diabetic shoes can flatten or compress. If your shoes feel less comfortable than they used to, it’s a sign they’ve lost their supportive properties.
Signs to Watch For:
- Pain or discomfort after wearing your shoes
- Feeling like you’re walking directly on the hard surface beneath the shoe
Why It Matters: Research published in Clinical Biomechanics shows that inadequate cushioning increases peak plantar pressures, which is a major risk factor for diabetic foot ulcers (Lavery et al., 2007). Without proper cushioning, your feet are subjected to increased pressure and shock, which can lead to sores or joint pain.
Solution: Look for shoes with removable insoles or consider adding custom orthotics for enhanced support.
Frequent Blisters or Sores
If you notice recurring blisters, calluses, or red marks on your feet, it could be a sign that your shoes no longer fit properly or have developed pressure points.
Why It Matters: The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) emphasizes that even minor skin irritations can escalate into serious wounds for people with diabetes, as poor circulation slows healing and increases infection risks (IWGDF, 2019).
What to Do: Visit a podiatrist to assess the problem and invest in new shoes with a better fit. Seamless interiors and soft materials are crucial for preventing irritation.
Changes in Foot Size or Shape
Feet naturally change over time due to factors like weight fluctuations, aging, or swelling caused by diabetes. If your shoes suddenly feel too tight or too loose, it’s likely time for a replacement.
How to Tell:
- Your toes feel cramped or overlap
- There’s excessive slipping at the heel
- The shoe causes discomfort despite being properly laced
Why It Matters: A study in The Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development found that poorly fitting shoes are a leading cause of foot deformities and ulcers in diabetic patients (Mueller et al., 2018). Ill-fitting shoes can restrict blood flow, cause friction, and exacerbate existing foot problems.
Tip: Have your feet measured professionally every six months to ensure you’re wearing the correct size.
Odor or Moisture Build-Up
Persistent odors or excessive moisture inside your shoes may indicate that the materials are no longer breathable or effective at wicking away sweat.
Why It Matters: A damp environment promotes fungal infections like athlete’s foot, which can be particularly dangerous for diabetics. According to a review in Diabetic Medicine , fungal infections are more common in diabetic patients due to impaired immune responses (Jeffcoate et al., 2018).
What to Look For in New Shoes:
- Breathable fabrics like mesh or perforated leather
- Moisture-wicking linings
- Removable insoles for easy cleaning
Read Also:- Right Diabetic Shoes to Relieve Diabetic Foot Pain
How Often Should You Replace Diabetic Shoes?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most experts recommend replacing diabetic shoes every 6–12 months if worn daily. Factors like usage frequency, activity level, and shoe quality also play a role.
Chart: General Replacement Guidelines
Tips for Choosing New Diabetic Shoes
When shopping for new diabetic shoes, keep these tips in mind:
- Look for Extra Depth: Allows room for custom orthotics and reduces pressure on sensitive areas (Bus et al., 2016).
- Prioritize Adjustability: Velcro straps or elastic laces help achieve a secure, customizable fit (IWGDF, 2019).
- Choose Non-Slip Outsoles: Prevents slips and falls, especially important for those with balance issues (Armstrong et al., 2017).
- Consult a Podiatrist: They can recommend brands and styles tailored to your specific needs.
Finally
Your feet deserve the best care possible, and wearing the right shoes is a vital part of managing diabetes. Pay attention to the signs outlined above—visible wear, loss of support, frequent sores, changes in foot size, and odor/moisture issues—to determine when it’s time for new diabetic shoes.
Remember, investing in high-quality footwear today can save you from costly medical treatments down the road. Don’t wait until your shoes fail you; prioritize your foot health now.
References
- American Diabetes Association. (2020). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2020 . Diabetes Care, 43(Supplement_1), S1-S212.
- Armstrong, D. G., Boulton, A. J. M., & Bus, S. A. (2017). Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Their Recurrence. New England Journal of Medicine , 376(24), 2367-2375.
- Bus, S. A., van Netten, J. J., Lavery, L. A., et al. (2016). IWGDF Guidance on the Prevention of Foot Ulcers in At-Risk Patients with Diabetes. Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews , 32(Suppl 1), 16-24.
- Jeffcoate, W. J., Game, F. L., & Cavanagh, P. R. (2018). The Role of Infected Ulceration in the Pathogenesis of Amputation in Diabetes. Diabetic Medicine , 35(1), 11-18.
- Lavery, L. A., Armstrong, D. G., Wunderlich, R. P., et al. (2007). Risk Factors for Foot Ulcers in Individuals with Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study. Clinical Biomechanics , 22(1), 10-17.
- Mueller, M. J., Hastings, M. K., Commean, P. K., et al. (2018). Forefoot Structural Predictors of Plantar Pressures During Walking in People With Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy. Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development , 45(7), 1053-1062.