Diabetic Shoe & Foot Orthotic Care Instructions
Proper application, wear schedule, and essential self-examination guidelines for diabetic footwear
When being fitted for your diabetic shoes and foot orthotics, your orthotist will provide instructions on how to properly wear, care for, and break them in to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness. Some points to remember:
Stockings
Always wear clean, properly fitted socks when using your shoes and orthotic inserts. Choose soft cotton or diabetic-specific socks for optimal comfort and protection. Be sure to smooth out any wrinkles, as they can lead to skin irritation or breakdown over time.
Shoes
- • Use a shoe horn every time you put on your shoes. This helps preserve the shape of the heel counter and prevents premature wear or breakdown.
- • Do not overtighten laces or straps. Shoes should be snug enough to keep your feet from sliding forward, but never so tight that they leave pressure marks.
- • If you have reduced sensation, be especially cautious—excess pressure can impair circulation and lead to skin irritation or breakdown.
- • Always wear shoes specifically designed to accommodate your diabetic foot orthotics. The shoes should not press or rub against your toes when the orthotics are in place.
Application
- • First remove any existing shoe inlay, the diabetic inserts will provide the support you need.
- • To insert your foot orthotic, slide the front portion into the shoe first, then press down firmly on the heel to ensure the insert sits flat. Check with your hand to feel for any wrinkles or bunching inside the shoe before putting your foot in.
- • Once the orthotic is properly seated, slide your foot into the shoe and fasten the laces and/or straps securely. Do not overtighten.
- • To remove your orthotics, lift them by gently sliding your fingers under the arch and lifting upward. Avoid pulling on the foam top cover, as this may cause it to tear.
Important - Replace Regularly
If you receive three pairs of diabetic-style foot orthotics, be sure to replace each pair every four months of regular use. Over time, the materials can compress and lose effectiveness, so timely replacement is essential. Remember to return to Rebound annually for new orthotics and shoes to ensure continued support and protection for your feet.
Self Examination
Critical for Neuropathy Patients
This is a critical part of your care—in cases of neuropathy you cannot rely on sensation alone. Always remove your shoes and socks, then perform a thorough visual inspection of your entire foot. You can use a mirror to help if visualization is difficult. Early detection of any redness, sores, or irritation can help prevent serious complications. If any redness persists longer than 30 minutes, or if you notice blistering, bruising, or skin breakdown, stop wearing the orthotics and contact your orthotist to schedule an adjustment appointment.
Wear Schedule
Break in your new shoes and foot orthotics gradually by following the recommended wear schedule. Your feet need time to adjust to the new pressures and alignment created by the shoes/inserts. The goal is to allow your body to adapt without causing discomfort or injury. Problems may develop due to daily fluctuations in foot size and volume. Avoid high level activities while breaking in your new shoes and orthotics.
Day 1 — 1 to 2 Hours
Begin by wearing your shoes and orthotic inserts for 1 to 2 hours on the first day. After the first hour, remove your shoes and socks and carefully inspect the skin on both feet—including the sides, tops, bottoms, backs of the heels, and legs. A mirror can be helpful. You may notice red marks, which are signs of pressure. These marks are generally normal and should fade or disappear within 30 minutes. If any redness persists longer than 30 minutes, or if you notice blistering, bruising, or skin breakdown, stop wearing the orthotics and contact your orthotist to schedule an adjustment appointment.
Day 2 — 2 to 3 Hours
Wear the shoes and inserts for an additional hour compared to the previous day. Once again, check your skin for any signs of irritation or redness.
Add 1 Hour Each Day
Gradually increase the wear time by about one hour each day. Typically, it takes 10-14 days to break in until full-time wear is achieved.
Maintenance
- • Inspect your diabetic shoes and foot orthotics daily for any signs of damage.
- • Do not attempt to modify the orthosis on your own. If you notice any issues, contact your orthotist.
- • To clean your inserts, you may wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not submerge the foot orthotics in water, as it could damage the foam layers.
- • Allow the orthotics to air dry and ensure they are fully dry before wearing to avoid any skin irritation or discomfort.
- • Changes in weight, activity, surgeries, overall health, or growth can affect the fit. Visit with your orthotist on a regular basis to see if adjustments are needed.
Need Help?
If you have questions or concerns about your diabetic shoes or orthotic inserts, please contact your orthotist or call us at (763) 684-1010.
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