Neuropathy

Definition of Neuropathy

Of the 16 million Americans with diabetes, 25% develop foot problems related to the disease. This is primarily due to a condition called neuropathy. Diabetic Neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the nerves. The most common type of diabetic neuropathy is called peripheral neuropathy and affects the peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerves are the nerves that go out from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, skin, internal organs, and glands. Peripheral neuropathy impairs proper functioning of these sensory and motor nerves. The most common symptoms of neuropathy include numbness and loss of feeling, usually in the feet and hands.

Recommended Footwear for Neuropathy

All Apex shoes feature roomy toe boxes and removable insoles, two must-have features for those with neuropathic feet. A roomy toe box allows the shoe to fit comfortably without irritating or rubbing the foot, while a removable insole accommodates custom or prefabricated orthotics, which could be recommended by a doctor. Regardless of which shoe you choose, we recommend having your feet measured yearly to ensure proper shoe sizing. Because of the loss of sensation, shoes that are too tight or short may not be noticed by people with neuropathic feet, leading to further complications.

Best Shoes for Neuropathy

Best Men’s Shoes for Neuropathy: Men's Lace Walking Shoe - Black

Best Women's Shoes for Neuropathy: Women's Boss Runner Active Shoe - X-Last - Silver/Sea Blue

Best Dress Shoes for Neuropathy: Women's Dress Shoe Petals Janice - Pewter | Men's Cap Toe Oxford Dress Shoe Lexington - Black

Best Walking Shoes for Neuropathy: Women's Lace Walking Shoe - V-Last - White/Periwinkle | Men's Lace Walking Shoe V Last - White/Blue

Best Hiking Shoes for Neuropathy: Women's Trail Runner Active Shoe - Sierra Gray/Purple | Men's Ariya - Hiking Boot - Brown

Best Work Shoes for Neuropathy: Women's Dress Shoe Petals Janice - Black | Men's Boss Runner Active Shoe - Black

Best Insoles for Neuropathy: A-Wave Orthotic Support Insole Unisex

Best Slipper for Neuropathy: Unisex Orthopedic Moccasin Slipper Camel

It is important for diabetics to treat their feet properly to avoid any future problems. Footwear and foot orthotics play an important role in diabetic footcare. Footwear that fits poorly can cause irritation and injury.  Diabetic footwear should also provide the following benefits:

Cause of Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy can cause insensitivity or a loss of ability to feel pain, heat, and cold. Diabetics suffering from neuropathy can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that they may not be aware of due to the insensitivity. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result and lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation. Neuropathy can also cause deformities such as Bunions, Hammer Toes, and Charcot Feet. It is very important for diabetics to take the necessary precautions to prevent all foot-related injuries. Due to the consequences of neuropathy, daily observation of the feet is critical. When a diabetic patient takes the necessary preventative footcare measures, he or she reduces the risk of developing serious foot conditions.

Treatment and Prevention of Neuropathy

The most successful way to prevent diabetic neuropathy from occurring is to control the diabetes. It is important to maintain blood sugars at normal levels and maintain normal blood pressure. In addition to this, it is important to: