Shoes

Written by Erick Janisse, CO, CPed
Dr. Comfort® Education Department

Written by Brian Lane, C.Ped

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.

Written by: Erick Janisse

The first Wednesday in April is celebrated as National Walking Day. As humans, walking is how most of us get around; but as exercise it provides great health benefits, too! According to a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School, walking for 2.5 hours a week – that’s just over 20 minutes a day! – can reduce your risk of heart disease by as much as 30%.  Walking has also been shown to decrease the risk of developing diabetes, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and even helps to keep you mentally sharp.  Dr. Thomas Frieden, who served as the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under President Obama, has stated that walking is “the closest thing we have to a wonder drug.”

The Mayo Clinic - in an article titled “Walking: Trim your waistline, improve your health” - says that the faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the health benefits.  They also recommend that you alternate periods of brisk walking with leisurely walking. This is known as interval training and has several benefits, like improving cardiovascular fitness and burning more calories than regular walking. Another advantage is that interval training can be done in less time than regular walking.

Of course, you should check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine, but once you decide to get started there are a few things to consider. You’ll need to plan your routine.  Start slowly so that you don’t get discouraged and make a schedule that is practical and easy to adhere to. Having the right equipment is definitely an important consideration.  When it comes to walking equipment, obviously you think of shoes, right?  Dr. Comfort offers many great styles to get you started on your new fitness journey. Some women’s shoes that are specially designed for walking are the Grace, Diane, Refresh, Victory and Spirit.  For men, think about the Performance, Winner, Gordon, Jack and Endurance. These shoes are all quite supportive yet offer excellent shock absorption and cushioning, making for an overall comfortable walking experience.

Walking is the first step to living a healthy lifestyle.  Walking feels great, you can do it with a friend, it’s fun and, best of all, it’s free!

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: Brian Lane

The leaves are changing, football season is in full force, pumpkin spice is added to everything, and flip flop and sandal season is ending. It is now time to think about getting a little cozier with your footwear. The Dr. Comfort line of boots and slippers can help you Fall into something to meet your Autumn needs.

These boots were made for walking….or hiking, working or any other activity!  Starting with the men’s and women’s chukka style boots which can be either casual or dress, let me introduce you to the Ruk and Cara. Both provide a little more ankle support with a sleek look and feel. Pair these shoes up with some blue jeans or a nice pair of slacks. Any way you wear them, these styles will go great with the season.

The hiking boot options include the Vigor and Ranger. These two rugged boots have an elastic lace and a hook and loop closure for a securing fit along with a great padded lining for comfort. Wear these on your next trip through the woods, up the mountain, or just around the block. The lightweight design will make you feel like you are hiking in the clouds.

When it comes to work boots, the Protector and Boss have your feet covered. These premium work boots do it all. They support the ankle, allow for easy removal with the hook eyelets, include a comfortable padded collar and, for the Protector, a steel toe. Not to mention, like all Dr. Comfort footwear, these boots have more room for the toes…almost ½” more than your standard shoes. So, get out there and tackle that fall project because the Boss and Protector will help you succeed!

Dr. Comfort’s slipper collection helps you relax and get cozy!  In fact, two of our slippers are called Relax and Cozy so you can do just that! These styles, along with the Easy and Cuddle, all come with a great gel insert, to provide cushioning and a comfortable fleece lining. The extra depth in the toe box also allows room for your toes to move and breathe. Either choose the open back design to easily slip your foot inside (Cozy and Easy) or consider the slippers with a back (Relax and Cuddle). Whatever you choose, your feet will thank you!

You can enjoy the weather change and all the Fall activities while truly appreciating the season wearing your new Dr. Comfort boots or slippers!

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: 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

Ready for adventure? Our latest athletic shoes – named for famed explorers Marco Polo and Amelia Earhart – can take you there in stylish, supportive comfort.

More like sandals than shoes, Marco (for men) and Amelia (for women) feature ventilated leather and mesh uppers that mold to your foot for added comfort while letting air in to keep feet cool and dry. The EVA and rubber outsole enhance stability without sacrificing comfort, so you can feel confident exploring new terrain; an external shankpiece assists with normal ambulation to help keep you steady.

“Like their namesakes, Marco and Amelia are ready to go exploring,” says Brian Lane, Director of Education at Dr. Comfort®. “They combine strength and durability with support and comfort for diabetes-related foot conditions, arthritis and plantar fasciitis, so you can focus on your journey instead of your feet.”

The newest additions to the full line of Dr. Comfort® athletic shoes have a soft micro-suede lining that reduces the risk of skin breakdown, and adjustable quick-tie/lace closures to slip them on and off easily. Choose from on-trend colors including black, gray, green or camo for men and black, gray/green and burgundy for women.

Whether you’re walking around town or along trails, take Marco and Amelia with you.

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.

By: Jeanne Bellezzo

When you’re living with diabetes, you know it’s important to take especially good care of your feet. Keep them clean, dry and protected – and make smart decisions about your footwear.

The shoes you wear can help make a big difference in your foot health and comfort. Footwear that offers little or no support, compresses your feet or toes, or puts pressure on vulnerable areas can contribute to potential problems ranging from blisters and toe deformities to ulcers and serious infections. Researchers in an Australian study recommended people with diabetes should be advised to wear footwear that fits, protects and accommodates the shape of their feet.¹

“That’s where therapeutic footwear comes in,” says Brian Lane, Director of Education at Dr. Comfort®.  “Specially designed and constructed to help protect your feet and provide exceptional comfort, diabetic footwear offers important features and benefits for people with diabetes.”

And despite their name, modern therapeutic shoes look anything but therapeutic. In fact, Dr. Comfort was founded on the belief that footwear for people with diabetes (and other conditions that affect feet) can be both healthy and stylish. Our shoes combine comfort and protection with fashionable designs in a wide range of attractive styles and colors that you’ll want to wear – because if you don’t wear them, they can’t help you.

Features to look for

When you’re shopping for diabetic footwear, keep the following features in mind:

• Extra-wide widths: Extra width provides plenty of room for foot comfort, so the shoe doesn’t pinch or constrict nerves or impair circulation.
• Large toe boxes: A wide toe box helps reduce pressure on the foot and gives the toes room to stretch and relax without feeling cramped or restricted. It also helps reduce the risk of injury.
• Easy on/off closure systems: Laces, straps and hook-and-loop closures provide a secure, customizable fit, so the shoe is easy to slip on and off and adjust for comfort.
• Firm heel counter: A solid heel provides extra protection, support and stability.
• Padded tongue: Soft padding on the tongue helps prevent friction and improve overall fit.
• Extra-depth options: Extra depth accommodates custom insoles and orthotics comfortably.

“In addition, look for approval by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA),” says Lane.

Comfortable shoes for every occasion

Dr. Comfort offers diabetic shoes for almost any need: casual, athletic, dressy and more – even boots and sandals. We use only the finest materials, technology and craftsmanship to help ensure quality and comfort.

Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional about whether Dr. Comfort shoes are right for you. In many cases, diabetic footwear may be covered by Medicare and supplementary insurance.

1. van Netten JJ, Lazzarini PA, Armstrong DG, Bus SA, Fitridge R, Harding K, Kinnear E, Malone M, Menz HB, Perrin BM, Postema K, Prentice J, Schott KH, Wraight PR. Diabetic Foot Australia guideline on footwear for people with diabetes. J Foot Ankle Res. 2018 Jan 15;11:2. doi: 10.1186/s13047-017-0244-z. PMID: 29371890; PMCID: PMC5769299.

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.