When choosing a pair of shoes, always ensure that the shoes are appropriate with supportive features and are of good fit.

Footwear should ideally have removable insoles and sufficient depth to allow insertion of orthoses, if required.

1. Wide and Deep Toe Box

Allows for sufficient room for toes and prevents skin abrasions from occurring

2. Laces or buckles

Secures feet firmly to shoes and prevents slippage and risk of falling

3. Firm and rigid heel counter

Holds your heel in place when you are walking

4. One thumb's width spacing

Allows for one thumb's width spacing from the longest toe to the front of the shoe to ensure adequate space for your feet when walking 

5. Flexible toe box

Shoe should be flexible only at the balls of the feet so as to encourage efficient toe-off when walking

6. Midsole

Midsole should not be too flexible to maintain stability of the mid-foot

• Before buying, it is best to try the shoes to ensure proper fit of the shoes
• Avoid having someone else buy the shoes for you or even buying them online without first trying them

Open-toed sandals or slippers

Narrow-fitting shoes as they may compress the toes 
and cause foot problems

Do not walk barefooted at home.

This is to prevent injuring your feet when:

• An object accidentally drops on your foot, or
• You accidentally hit your foot against an object, or
• You accidentally step on a sharp object

Remember: Always wear protective cushioning slippers at home to protect your feet

Ref: K21

Check out these articles on diabetes care:

Beat Diabetes with These Must-Know Tips

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How Diabetes Affects the Feet

Diabetes Foot Care: 10 Steps to Healthy Feet

Diabetes Foot Care: How to Avoid Foot Complications

Diabetes Foot Care: What to Do During an Emergency