INTRODUCTION
Why Specialized Footwear
Matters for Diabetes Patients
Diabetes
Mellitus (DM) is a silent epidemic, affecting over 77 million people in India
alone. With an alarming rise in Type 2 diabetes cases—expected to hit 98
million by 2030—the risk of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) is also increasing.
DFUs aren’t
just minor foot wounds. They are open sores that, if ignored, can lead to
severe infections, reduced mobility, and even amputations. Approximately 15% of
people with diabetes will develop a diabetic foot ulcer in their lifetime, and
the risk is even higher for those over 60.
While
therapeutic footwear is a proven way to prevent complications, most diabetic
shoes are outdated, unappealing, and lack customization—resulting in low
patient compliance.
STUDY
A Step Forward: The
Hyderabad Experiment
To address this
issue, an experimental study was conducted by FDDI Hyderabad in collaboration
with the Lepra Society in Hyderabad, India. The goal? To test customized
footwear with orthosis support and analyze its impact on comfort, pressure
relief, and overall foot health for diabetic patients.
The Study at a Glance
110 participants (80 men,
30 women) at low risk of DFUs
Therapeutic footwear with Micro Cellulose Rubber (MCR) insoles & custom
orthotic pads
Patient feedback collected to refine future designs
What Do Diabetic Patients
Really Want?
The results were
eye-opening! A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Patients have distinct
preferences based on comfort, usability, and aesthetics.
Here’s what they asked for:
85% wanted variety in
colors & styles – Because diabetic shoes shouldn’t look like medical
devices!
75% preferred soft, adjustable Velcro straps – Easy to wear, easy to remove.
60% requested closed footwear – Extra protection, especially during winters.
30% suggested adding MCR insoles to regular footwear.
2% desired removable, well-fitting insoles – More adaptability, less hassle.
Key Takeaway? Men
prioritized function, while women focused on design. The future of diabetic
footwear needs to cater to both!
The Science Behind
Specialized Footwear
Why is customized diabetic
footwear essential? Here’s how it makes a difference:
✔ Distributes
pressure evenly – Prevents hotspots that could turn into ulcers.
✔ Enhances healing –
Offloading techniques speed up recovery.
✔ Soft, seamless linings –
Reduce friction and irritation.
✔ Advanced materials –
Plastozote, memory foam, cork-based insoles provide better support.
✔ Breathable, seamless socks
– Keep feet dry and irritation-free.
The Real Challenge: Getting
Patients to Wear Them
Even with these benefits,
many diabetic patients hesitate to wear specialized shoes. Why?
Limited design options – No one wants to wear shoes that look like medical gear.
Low market availability – Finding the right pair is a challenge.
Price sensitivity – Patients are willing to pay more for good design +
comfort, but manufacturers still ignore essential features.
The Future of Diabetic
Footwear: Style Meets Functionality
To truly revolutionize
diabetic footwear, we need to rethink the way we design them.
Stylish & Aesthetic – Shoes that people actually want to wear.
Adjustable Fit – Soft, cushioned, and easy to customize.
Material Innovation – Smart textiles for better comfort &
durability.
Casual & Professional Wear – So patients don’t have to compromise
between health & style.
CONCLUSION
Final Thoughts: Walking
Towards a Healthier Future
This study proves one
thing: Diabetic footwear isn’t just about medical benefits—it’s about comfort,
confidence, and daily usability. With better designs, smarter materials, and
patient-focused innovation, diabetic shoes can move beyond hospitals and become
a lifestyle choice—helping millions take safer, healthier steps every day.
After all, a shoe isn’t
just a shoe—it’s a step toward a better future.
Link to access full research paper- https://rb.gy/ik9i59
Abdul Rahuman M, Senior Faculty @ School of Footwear Design & Production, Hyderabad
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