How to Fit Therapeutic Shoes Fitting your patient with their diabetic inserts and shoes is an important part of the diabetic preventive care your providing. Patients will be compliant with wearing their therapeutic shoes if they like the style and they are comfortable to walk in. Take time to ensure your patient receives a great fit and if not, then exchange the shoes for another size or different style.

Place Diabetic Insert into Shoe Place the diabetic insert into the shoe and make sure it fits flush within the interior of the shoe.

Checking Shoe length Make sure there is enough space (3/8" to 1/2") for the longest toe at the end of the shoe with your patient standing.

Check for Room in the Toe Box Feel the top of the toe box with your thumb to make sure there is adequate room for the digits, especially if hammertoes are present

Check the Uppers of the Shoe Feel the sides and top of the shoe to make sure there is adequate room especially if the foot is swollen or if the patient has a high instep. Loosen the laces or adjust the Velcro straps if the shoe is too tight

Check the Ball of the Foot Make sure the ball of the foot fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe to prevent excessive pressure.

Check for Heel Slippage Hold the shoe heel counter down and have the patient lift their heel to check for heel slippage. If the shoe rides up and down on the heel when the patient walks, the shoe is too long or too wide and will require a different size.

Have the Patient Walk Have your patient walk in the shoes to make sure they are comfortable and not feeling any excessive skin irritation. Instruct the patient to wear the shoes in their house on carpet to be sure they like the shoes in the event they need to exchange the shoes for another pair. Have your patient examine their feet nightly to ensure their new shoes and inserts are not causing any skin irritation and call your office if problems occur.