Orthopedic Shoes

Written by Mallory Lor, C.Ped

Today is National DNA Day, which commemorates the discovery of the DNA double helix and the completion of the human genome project in 2003. You are probably thinking, why is a diabetic shoe company writing about this? Well, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to talk about the DNA of diabetic shoes and diabetic socks.

What is in the DNA of a diabetic (or therapeutic) shoe? Medicare has some basic criteria when it comes to diabetic shoes:

• Additional depth in the shoe of 3/16” (to accommodate a foot insert): Dr. Comfort® shoes are all made with at least 7/16” additional depth and in our “double depth” collection 11/16”.
• Available in half sizes and at least 3 widths: Dr. Comfort® shoes are all available in half sizes and come in Medium, Wide and Extra Wide widths. The women’s Paradise Black is available in a Narrow width.
• Constructed with leather or other suitable materials: All Dr. Comfort® shoes are made of high quality, breathable materials with most of the casual and dress collection styles made with real leather. Dr. Comfort® offers a wool collection (Sean, Dawn, Liam, Meadow, Autumn) made with Merino wool to help keep feet cool and dry.
• Must have a closure: Dr. Comfort® shoes all have closures like shoelaces, hook-and-loop or elastic no-tie laces. Many hook-and-loop closures are hidden under a faux buckle. Dr. Comfort® also just released a new style Peter (men’s) and Theresa (women’s) that has hidden hook-and-loop closures with the look of a lace up shoe.

Keeping the health and safety of customers in mind, Dr. Comfort® has taken additional measures in the construction of diabetic shoes:

• Seamless toe boxes: Dr. Comfort® shoes do not have bumpy seams in the toe box of the shoes. This helps to reduce rubbing and pressure points on those sensitive feet.
• Variety of styles and soles: Looking at our line of shoes, you’ll notice the vast array of styles and different types of soles available.
• Customizable: Dr. Comfort® shoes are constructed to be customized if needed. We can add a lift, lengthen or shorten straps, add a rocker sole and do many more customizations to ensure the shoes meet the specific needs of the wearer. (These modifications are only available through a Dr. Comfort® provider.)

Dr. Comfort® shoes are truly designed with YOU in mind! Our shoes are primarily available through health care providers who specialize in foot health. Proper footwear can help prevent more serious complications for those at risk of diabetes. If you qualify, Medicare or other insurance plans may help cover the cost. Click here to find a footwear professional.

The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.

The American Diabetes Association announces a new partnership to advance consumer resources for successful foot care

The American Diabetes Association^® (ADA), the nation’s leading volunteer health organization, announced a new partnership with Dr. Comfort, to provide foot care resources on an ADA platform in a journey-driven experience for those living with diabetes and their caregivers.

Dr. Comfort is the national sponsor of Living with Diabetes: Foot Care & Amputation. The Foot Care & Amputation section of the platform leads each user to learn to care for their feet, understand foot conditions and complications, ways to stay physically active, and more. Individuals living with diabetes and their caregivers can access this platform by answering a few simple questions to help guide them on their journey to reach the tools, resources, and education they need for successful foot care.

Every four minutes in America, a limb is amputated due to diabetes. This statistic is even more shocking when you consider that amputation is almost completely preventable. Education and resources are vital for those living with diabetes and this partnership will help arm millions of people with the information they need to prevent foot care complications.

“The ADA is working hard to help the over 34 million Americans with diabetes deal with and overcome the unique health complications they face on a daily basis such as foot complications. Through this personalized diabetes journey experience, we hope to meet them where they are to deliver the resources and education they need to thrive,” said Jacqueline Sebany, Chief Marketing and Digital Officer for the American Diabetes Association.

The journey was developed to deliver information to those living with diabetes based on self-identified need and interest, as well as where they are in their diabetes journey.

Click here to read the full press release: https://diabetes.org/newsroom/press-releases/2021/american-diabetes-association-dr-comfort-team-up-give-millions-living-with-diabetes-needed-resoruces-prevent-foot-complications

“Dr. Comfort is proud to continue to be at the forefront of helping people with diabetes live fuller lives through our partnership with the ADA.” – Raj Subramonian, SVP/GM Dr. Comfort

Written by: Brian Lane

In our lifetime we will walk over 200 million steps. Of course, footwear matters!  At Dr. Comfort, we know how important your feet are to your overall health. When your feet hurt, you can hurt all over. Creating various types of shoes to address different feet is our job. We want your feet to experience comfort while getting the support and structure you need!

Wearing shoes not made for your feet can make problems worse. That is one of the reasons why Dr. Comfort offers full and half sizes with 3 available widths. It would be difficult to accommodate everyone’s foot by just one width or full sizes. Our sizes vary from a medium to an extra wide and we offer half sizes to ensure maximum fit!

Dr. Comfort also offers a variety of different footwear for all walks of life! Many of our Lycra style shoes (Brian, Annie, Douglas, Carter…) have the ability to stretch without causing pressure or irritation to a bunion or during times of swelling. In addition, the Lycra material makes these shoes very breathable and lightweight.

Are you staying active and need stability? Then let me introduce you to our stability outsole shoes---Gordon, Grace, Jack, Diane, Roger and Ruth. These styles have a dual density outsole for increased stability and support while walking. The durable outsole has an outflare for additional balance and these shoes style to go with their function!

Another option is finding a shoe that is lighter in weight. We have several styles to offer! Try the Meghan, Katy, Chris or Jason as these shoes look good and feel great! They offer breathability and you will forget you have these shoes on your feet! Goodbye fatigue at the end of a long walk, these shoes are one of the reasons why “Comfort” is in our name!

Whether you need the right size or need a shoe for your specific needs, Dr. Comfort has you covered!  The experience of designers and staff can help to fulfill your needs for your feet.

The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.

Written by: Jeanne Bellezzo

Your Favorite Athletic Shoes Now Have Double Depth

You asked for them, and they’re here! Our popular Gordon and Grace athletic shoes – the ones you count on for any adventure – are now available with double depth. With Gordon X  (for men) and Grace X  (for women), your favorite activities will feel even better with a roomier fit that gives your feet more space.

These new cross-functional shoes have the same sleek, modern design as the popular originals, but with the added benefit of a full-length, heel-to-toe filler that you can easily remove for added depth.

“That extra interior space is great for people with diabetes, poor circulation, foot ulcers, peripheral neuropathy, edema and conditions like hammertoes and bunions that can make wearing standard-depth shoes uncomfortable,” says Brian Lane, Director of Education at Dr. Comfort®. “Plus, the double depth easily accommodates orthotics, custom inserts and thicker socks.”

Along with added depth, Gordon X and Grace X combine style and performance with stability and protection. The firm heel counter and dual-density midsole and footbed provide extra medial and lateral stability, while the anti-abrasion sole helps prevent slipping, so you can move with confidence. A protective toe box helps guard against stubbed toes, and reduced seam lines minimize skin irritation.

Lightweight and fashion-forward, Gordon X and Grace X feature 3D mesh exteriors, micro-suede interiors, and are available in three widths. A lace-up closure makes them easy to put on, take off and adjust for comfort.

Whether you’re walking, running errands or just going about your day, give Gordon X and Grace X a try to help keep your feet supported, comfortable and on trend.

 

The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.

Written by: Jeanne Bellezzo

Happy Feet: Benefits of Athletic Shoes

Written by: Jeanne Bellezzo

Exercise has so many benefits – it strengthens your heart, helps you lose or maintain weight, and gets your “feel good” endorphins flowing. Even a brief walk can benefit body and mind, especially if you do it outdoors in nature. But, it’s important to have the right footwear, particularly if you have foot-related health conditions.

Dr. Comfort® offers a full line of athletic shoes for men and women to help support and cushion your feet, whether you’re walking, running or just running errands. We’ve combined special features for stability and protection with the style and comfort that motivates you to move.  With various style options to choose from, they are supportive athletic shoes for people with diabetes symptoms related to feet and toes, as well as a number of other foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis (heel pain) and more.*

“says Brian Lane, Director of Education at Dr. Comfort. “Our stability outsole shoes are great for people with balance issues or overpronation due to the outflare outsole. Rubber/EVA soles benefit people with conditions like plantar fasciitis or severe pronation or supination, which is when the foot rolls to the inside or outside. And both our quick-tie laces and hook and loop closures make it easy to get in and out of the shoes.”

Walking Shoes

Walk a few blocks or a few miles with comfortable support. Our lightweight walking shoes offer features such as rubber treading at the toe and heel, padded heels and tongues for extra comfort and external shank pieces to help reduce the load on your feet and maintain your balance on uneven terrain. Breathable micro-mesh interiors let air circulate around your feet; choose stylish mesh like Jason, Chris and Meghan or leather or textile uppers like Endurance and Victory. Dr. Comfort athletic walking shoes can help feet affected by diabetes, edema, hammertoes, bunions, or plantar fasciitis (heel pain), as well as pronation or supination.

Running Shoes

Ready to take it up a notch? Our Gordon and Grace running shoes help your feet power through. Our wider stability outsole with EVA and rubber is designed to provide enhanced support and help prevent your feet from rolling inward (overpronation); a roomier toe box gives toes more space. Keep your feet feeling good with an extended heel counter, increased toe spring, breathable mesh uppers and soft micro-suede interiors to help prevent abrasion. Our running shoes are ideal if you have balance or stability concerns, poor circulation in your legs or feet, lack protective sensation or overpronate.

Athleisure Styles

 Want the comfort and style of athletic shoes even when you’re not exercising? Check out our Jack and Diane athleisure styles. These lightweight, athletically inspired shoes offer all the support of our stability outsole, along with a reinforced thermo-molded heel counter, increased toe spring and reduced seam lines. Be comfortably fashionable with leather or synthetic knit uppers and comfy Lycra®* interiors for all-day breathability. Like our running shoes, our athleisure styles are a great choice if you’re concerned about balance or stability, have circulation or sensation issues, and/or your feet roll inward as you walk.

 

*Please reference our complete catalog for specific indications per style.

* Lycra® is a registered trademark of INVISTA NORTH AMERICA S.A.R.L.

The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.

Looking and feeling fantastic has never been easier.

The shoe can add a little extra to an outfit. So, it’s time to spring clean your wardrobe and put away the winter boots and bring out the bright colors and open-toe shoes. Allow your feet to be the staple this season without sacrificing comfort for fashion. Spring into style this season with these Dr. Comfort® picks.

Women’s Shoes

Katy

Bright and bold like the longer days of spring, the Katy is a vibrant athletic shoe that packs in comfort, support and style. Whether you want to head to the gym, walk around town, or run some errands, the Katy knows how to add pizazz to your casual outfits.

Features:

• No-Tie Elastic Lace Closure: Easy-to-adjust toggle closure—no tying or untying required—and seamless design to help prevent skin irritation
• Mesh Uppers: Breathable material to help regulate heat and keep feet cool and dry
• Removable Insoles: Footbeds can be removed to help accommodate your own orthotics
• Protective Toe Box: Protective toe box helps provide extra protection from toe stubbing
• Long-Lasting Shoe: Use of top-quality materials and construction helps prevent wear and tear and makes for a longer lasting shoe
• Firm Heel Counter: Help provide extra medial and lateral support and stability for day-to-day activities

Shop the Katy

Mallory

Clean lines and sophistication, the Mallory casual shoe elevates style while delivering comfort (our secret). These sleek-looking loafers go beyond the 9 to 5 look. The Mallory’s rich details and eye-catching design pairs well with just about any outfit from an evening out or casual coffee dates. Breathable and comfortable, these slide-on shoes are great for spring weather.

Features:

• Removable Insoles: Footbeds can be removed to help accommodate your own orthotics
• Arch Stability: Use of rigid shank in the mid-foot of the outsole helps deliver arch stability
• Improved Comfort: Reduced seamlines, soft micro-suede lining, and uppers with reduced stitching deliver comfort and help prevent skin irritation
• Added Support and Improved Fit: Firm heel counter for support, padded heel counter, and padded tongue to help reduce irritation
• Easy On/Off Application: Slip-on style allows this for easy on/off application
• Genuine Leather: Constructed with genuine leather for comfort and good foot support

Shop the Mallory

Breeze

Step out in style with our Breeze, a wear-anywhere sandal that pairs nicely with a dress or jeans. Crafted in full-grain leather and an open-air design, these sandals deliver luxurious comfort, breathability and that easy-going casual look that’s perfect for spring.

Features:

• Full-Grain Leather: Durable leather that helps prevent skin irritation and helps keep the foot comfortable during long hours of wear
• Customizable Fit: Adjustable contact closure allows for easy adjustability and personalized comfort.
• Open-Air Design: Breathable, open design to help keep feet cool and dry
• Protective Toe Box: Protective toe box helps provide extra protection from toe stubbing
• Top-Quality Shoe: Use of top-quality material and construction helps prevent wear and tear
• Firm Heel Counter: Helps provide extra medial and lateral support and stability for day-to-day activities

Shop the Breeze

Spring Men

Fisherman

Keep your feet cool and comfortable this spring in the Fisherman. An easy-going, casual sandal, the Fisherman combines soft leather, durable construction, and plenty of ventilation. Pair this with shorts or jeans for your outdoor adventure or casual outing with friends and family.

Features:

• Full-Grain Leather: Durable leather that helps prevent skin irritation and helps keep the foot comfortable during long hours of wear.
• Customizable Fit: Adjustable contact closure allows for easy adjustability and personalized comfort.
• Open-Air Design: Breathable, open design to help keep feet cool and dry.
• Protective Toe Box: Protective toe box helps provide extra protection from toe stubbing
• Top-Quality Shoe: Use of top-quality material and construction helps prevent wear and tear
• Firm Heel Counter: Helps provide extra medial and lateral support and stability for day-to-day activities.

Shop the Fisherman

Patrick

You can’t have spring without a classic boat shoe. The Patrick is a sophisticated, modern-day men’s casual boat shoe featuring top-grain leather that helps relieve pressure while aiding in all-day comfort. With a moccasin toe and detailed stitching on the outside, your foot will feel cushioned on the inside with its soft smooth, leather. From work to dinner, the Patrick pairs well with just about any outfit.

Features:

• Removable Insoles: Footbeds can be removed to help accommodate your own orthotics
• Supportive Insoles: Removable insole features a supportive polyurethane layer, gel pods in the forefoot and heel and polyethylene cushioning from heel to toe.
• Protective Toe Box: The extra width and depth in toe-box and forefoot helps reduce pressure on feet and helps prevent toe stubbing
• Leather Uppers: Breathable material to help regulate heat and keep feet cool and dry
• Lightweight Construction: Manufactured to stringent medical grade specifications, the lightweight outer sole is long lasting, light and has a non-skid finish
• Added Support and Improved Fit: Firm heel counter for support, padded heel counter and padded tongue to help reduce irritation

Shop the Patrick

Jason

A contemporary and bold athletic shoe delivering comfort during activity that is perfect for all your outdoor activities this spring. The Jason athletic shoe helps deliver support and flexibility no matter what activity you do. And with a virtually seamless design, the Jason is packed with foot solutions so you can go about your day with protection.

Features:

• No-Tie Elastic Lace Closure: Easy-to-adjust toggle closure—no tying or untying required—and seamless design to help prevent skin irritation
• Mesh Uppers: Breathable material to help regulate heat and keep feet cool and dry
• Removable Insoles: Footbeds can be removed to help accommodate your own orthotics
• Protective Toe Box: Protective toe box helps provide extra protection from toe stubbing
• Long-Lasting Shoe: Use of top-quality materials and construction helps prevent wear and tear and makes for a longer lasting shoe
• Firm Heel Counter: Helps provide extra medial and lateral support and stability for day-to-day activities

Shop the Jason

The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.

 

 

At Dr. Comfort®, we believe in comfortable, quality footwear. That’s why we use high-quality material and construct shoes to help provide comfort to your feet. Whether you’re looking for a casual shoe for work, something dressy for a special occasion, or something to wear during activity or to run around town, we’ve got a shoe for you. Continue reading →

Look around you; chances are at least several people in your general vicinity are wearing sneakers. At Dr. Comfort®, many of our top-rated shoes are sneakers. But how did the shoe synonymous with comfort come to be? Take a look: Continue reading →

Summer time is when your toes come out to play! From beach days to summer sandals, your feet are as out-and-about as you are. But with that come some risks, especially for diabetics. Extreme heat can cause foot swelling and/or dryness. Walking barefoot can lead to puncture wounds, blisters, etc. Before you toss those flip flops, we’ve got some tips for keeping your feet happy and healthy all summer long. Continue reading →

Welcome to the Dr. Comfort® Blog! Here at Dr. Comfort®, our goal is to help make life easier for people living with diabetes and other conditions affecting the feet. That’s why we launched our blog. A place where you can find all sorts of information to help you improve your lifestyle, whether it’s discovering new products or learning more about foot health. Continue reading →