Find the Right Shoes for Diabetes
Tips for Buying Shoes for Diabetes
To enhance diabetic foot health, the Joslin Diabetes Center offers these tips for buying new shoes and tossing old ones:
- Buy shoes made of soft, stretchable leather.
- When possible, choose laced shoes over loafers because they fit better and offer more support.
- For better shock absorption, look for a cushioned sole instead of a thin leather sole.
- Shop for shoes later in the day because feet swell as the day progresses.
- The distance between your longest toe and the shoe tip should be half of your thumb's width.
- To ensure proper fit, try on shoes while wearing the socks that you'll be using.
- Wear new shoes for 1-2 hours for the first time, then check feet for cuts or blisters. The next day, wear them 3-4 hours and gradually build up time to make sure they aren't injuring your feet.
Replace old shoes when:
- The heel begins to collapse to one side
- The bottom of the heel is worn down
- The inner lining of the shoe is torn
Is This Normal? Get the Facts Fast!
Answer:
0-69
70-130
131+
Your level is currently
If the level is below 70 and you are experiencing symptoms such as shaking, sweating or difficulty thinking, you will need to raise the number immediately. A quick solution is to eat a few pieces of hard candy or 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey. Recheck your numbers again in 15 minutes to see if the number has gone up. If not, repeat the steps above or call your doctor.
People who experience hypoglycemia several times in a week should call their health care provider. It's important to monitor your levels each day so you can make sure your numbers are within the range. If you are pregnant always consult with your health care provider.
Congratulations on taking steps to manage your health.
However, it's important to continue to track your numbers so that you can make lifestyle changes if needed. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Your level is high if this reading was taken before eating. Aim for 70-130 before meals and less than 180 two hours after meals.
Even if your number is high, it's not too late for you to take control of your health and lower your blood sugar.
One of the first steps is to monitor your levels each day. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Did You Know Your Lifestyle Choices
Affect Your Blood Sugar?
Use the Blood Glucose Tracker to monitor
how well you manage your blood sugar over time.
This tool is not intended for women who are pregnant.
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