Does Nike make Diabetic Shoes? Tips on Athletic Shoes for Diabetes

Active individuals often look to popular sports brands when picking a pair of sneakers, so they may find it challenging to find the right diabetic shoe at first. Well-known brands are often a dead end for those whose feet require special care; for example, Nike diabetic shoes are not a widely available option for buyers across the United States. The question is, then, what options do exist for active people with diabetes looking to protect their foot health?

As a Medicare-approved supplier carrying multiple therapeutic shoe brands, we know a thing or two about picking diabetic shoes for athletic activities. The purchase of a diabetic shoe is slightly different than that of a typical sports shoe, as they are custom-fitted and come with inserts for added support. For this reason, it’s a good idea to move beyond logos when picking your perfect pair.

Do I really need diabetic shoes instead of “regular” athletic shoes?

wide diabetic shoes sneakersFoot health is a serious concern for people with diabetes – 60 percent of non-traumatic amputations in the United States each year involve diabetic patients, who often lose their feet as a result of diabetic neuropathy. One of the best ways to prevent these serious complications is to wear therapeutic shoes. This is such an effective preventative method that Medicare even covers them for many diabetics.

Those who live an active lifestyle should be particularly aware of the shoes they are wearing. While regular movement and exercise can be extremely helpful in managing diabetes, it can also put feet at added risk for sprains, blisters, cuts, and other issues. These can be more serious for people with diabetes for a few reasons:

  • Diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness in the feet, hindering the ability to feel an injury. Those who don’t feel a sprain, blister, ulcer, or other issues right away are at high risk of making it much worse before getting medical attention;
  • Poor circulation can be caused by blood sugar issues. This can make it difficult for the foot to heal properly from an injury, increasing the likelihood that even a small blister or infection could become a major ulcer or other condition that requires amputation;
  • People with diabetes are more likely to have hammertoes, bunions, corns, and fungal infections. Diabetic circulation and nerve issues make these issues difficult to treat, so avoiding them in the first place and/or treating them with care when they do occur is a must.

Those who have foot issues combined with diabetes will be able to attain a Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) from their doctors. This will provide Medicare coverage for diabetic shoes.

Even if they do not qualify a CMN, active people should consider purchasing a pair of diabetic athletic shoes as soon as possible after receiving a diabetes diagnosis. If purchased through the right channels, custom-fitted athletic shoes for people with diabetes are no more expensive than a pair of Nikes – in fact, No Cost Shoes (that’s us!) has all pairs on sale for $99 right now!

What are the best diabetic athletic sneakers?

There are quite a few diabetic shoe brands to choose from (you can read our full list of the best brands here). However, here is a rundown of the most popular shoe lines for active lifestyles:

New Balance
new balance best diabetic shoes

Those who enjoy shoes from companies like Nike or Adidas often gravitate to New Balance due to the familiar brand name. New Balance is probably the most well-known brand to offer a line of therapeutic sneakers. Both velcro and laced options are available, and the design of many New Balance shoes are optimized for an active lifestyle. Just be careful to confirm that the New Balance shoe you are buying is Medicare-approved for diabetic care, since not all shoes from this brand carry this approval – to be sure of this, you can order your shoes directly from a diabetic shoe supplier like nocostshoes.com.

Dr. Comfort

dr. comfort running shoes for diabetics

We’ve been referring to an “active lifestyle” a lot in this article, but the reality is that this term can mean a lot of different things. For example, one person might enjoy hiking and camping while another may frequent the gym. One might be a runner, while the other prefers rock climbing. As any athlete knows, these activities are significantly more safe and fun with the right pair of shoes.

Dr. Comfort is a great option for people seeking shoes that are “just right” for their favorite sport or physical activity. With multiple lines of Medicare-approved sneakers, hiking boots, gym shoes and more, many choose Dr. Comfort due to its wide range of options and styles. You can see their full lineup on our website here.

Anodyne

anodyne running shoes diabetes

Maybe the reason you were seeking Nike diabetic shoes wasn’t brand name or options, but style. In that case, Anodyne might be a good fit for you. Anodyne’s sleek design in its Walker, Jogger, and Runner shoes have found a way to make velcro fasteners appear stylish, a welcome relief for style-conscious diabetic shoppers with limited mobility. They also offer Trail Boot options for hikers, as well as a few lace-up options for good measure. For shoppers aiming to combine comfort and style, Anodyne is a great option. See the full line-up of shoes here.

A final word on exercise and diabetes

We’ve written quite a bit about exercise and diabetes on our blog  – it is an important topic, and one we are careful to educate people about as a supplier of diabetic shoes.

For more tips on exercise and diabetes, we invite you to read our 6 Tips on Going to the Gym for Diabetics or to take a peek at our infographic below for a summary of our top advice for physical activity with diabetes.

For more information about athletic diabetic shoes from nocostshoes.com, click here.

6 critical tips about exercise for people with diabetes

Deadline to Order Diabetic Shoes within Medicare’s “Calendar Year” is Weeks Away!

Important reminder:  Qualifying people with diabetes only have a few weeks left to order shoes for Medicare/insurance coverage within the 2018 calendar year. Click here or call 1-866-923-2423 to fill out an application for coverage today.

What does “calendar year” mean in Medicare or insurance terminology?

When someone orders diabetic shoes covered by Medicare or insurance, they may see the term “CY” or “Calendar Year” listed beside the coverage (see below image). But, what does that really mean?

medicare calendar year

 

In insurance and Medicare terminology, “calendar year” applies to the period between January and December of any given year. That means a covered individual can order one pair of shoes and three sets of inserts at any time in 2018, then again anytime in 2019, and again in 2020…any month within each year, as long as a doctor deems them medically necessary.

This is slightly different than having shoes covered once every 12 months because it is less restrictive – a claimant does not necessarily have to wait 12 months to get their next pair, so long as they are in the next calendar year. For example, a person could order a pair of diabetic shoes in November 2018, then get another pair in March 2019, and get their next pair in January 2020. This provides some freedom for people order shoes when they need them, rather than having to make them last for 12 months each time. This is a good thing, because diabetics should wear their therapeutic  shoes and inserts every day and may want new ones sooner than expected!

Don’t leave a diabetic shoe order to the last minute – order before the end of November!

Many people choose to order their diabetic shoes from nocostshoes.com at the end of the year. This can be strategic – those who get shoes in October or November have to wait less time to order their next pair of Medicare-covered shoes, since their coverage restarts again in January. Other times, it’s less about strategy and more the result of forgetting or putting off ordering until the end of the year.

Whatever the reason, waiting until October or November to place an order is a common choice, but ordering any later than that may place the order in the next calendar year. Why? Because there are several steps required to obtain Medicare coverage, all of which need to be completed within the calendar year (in this case, 2018) in order to finalize the claim.

For those who place an order for shoes after mid-December will have their order shipped and billed in January. As a result, their final Medicare claim will fall under the following calendar year.

Tips for remembering to order diabetic shoes

remembering diabetic shoe appointmentRemembering to order diabetic shoes during each calendar year isn’t just a smart choice financially – it is also critical for health and well-being. But, how can qualifying diabetic Americans remember to order a pair each year? Here are some of the things our customers do to keep this coverage top-of-mind:

  • Book regular appointments with a family doctor and ask them to make a note of the need for shoes each year. To access diabetic shoes covered by Medicare and/or insurance, people with diabetes need paperwork filled out by their doctors. That’s why many people who need diabetic shoes ask their family doctor to make a note on their charts about the need for this equipment each year. People who need these shoes should already have regular appointments booked in advance, so it’s easy to ask the office to note that this appointment should involve discussion of diabetic shoes. Also, when noting the appointment in one’s own calendar, be sure to add a note about diabetic shoes.
  • Order shoes right after a doctor’s appointment. Of course, a reminder from the doctor doesn’t mean much if it isn’t followed by action. Those who make a routine of ordering shoes right after a regular checkup each year may find it easier to remember this important order.
  • Ask a podiatrist if it’s time for new shoes. Those who are better able to remember deadlines can also be strategic about their order by asking their podiatrist during a Medicare-covered appointment to whether their inserts/shoes are due for a replacement. If they say no, it may be wise to wait until later in the year (September – early November) to order shoes. If they say yes, of course, order them ASAP!
  • Tell a few loved ones about the deadline. It might be tough to remember the application deadline on one’s own, but telling a spouse, caregiver, and children about it as well will increase the likelihood someone will remember.
  • Write it down. Of course, the best advice is often the simplest – make a note in a calendar and stick to it! For those who do better with routine, picking a month each year to make an order is the best option.

Medicare won’t cover my therapeutic shoes. Now what?

At No Cost Shoes, we’re often surprised by how many people are unaware of Medicare’s coverage of shoes for diabetic Americans. It’s a huge benefit, and one that can make a big difference in the lives of people with diabetes. But, as more people find out about this coverage, those who do not qualify have started asking: “What can I do if I want diabetic shoes and Medicare won’t cover them?” Luckily, there are a few steps you can take if you find that coverage is not available to you at this time.

What are the Medicare requirements for diabetic shoe coverage?

In order for Medicare and most insurance plans to cover diabetic shoes, a doctor must attest that the patient needs them by filling out a Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN). Patients may qualify for a CMN if they have both diabetes and a pre-existing foot condition of some kind. Qualifying foot conditions include:

  • history of partial or complete foot amputation
  • history of previous foot ulceration
  • history of preulcerative callus
  • nerve damage because of diabetes with signs of problems with calluses
  • poor circulation
  • foot deformity

Some people have diabetes but are unaware if they have any foot condition. Others may have foot conditions but not be diabetic. For these individuals (many of whom can still benefit a great deal from diabetic shoes!) there are a few options.

Tip #1: Visit a podiatrist to confirm whether you have any hidden foot issues.

podiatrist checking diabetic patient's feetAlthough your family doctor is often the one filling out a CMN for your diabetic shoes, early warning signs of diabetic neuropathy and other foot conditions are most likely to be identified by a podiatrist.

If you have diabetes, Medicare covers one foot exam every 6 months. Take advantage of this coverage and maintain regular appointments to stay on top of your foot health. If you have a hidden condition that may entitle you to free diabetic shoes, or if you develop one in the future, a podiatrist can identify the first signs.

Tip #2: Look online for affordable diabetic shoes.

Many people with and without diabetes who do not qualify for diabetic shoes covered by Medicare still benefit from therapeutic footwear a great deal. It can increase comfort and mobility, as well as playing an important role in preventing amputation and associated foot issues. However, the high-priced specialty shoes that a local medical supplier or podiatrist may sell can be out of the price range of someone without coverage.

buy diabetic shoes - all shoes are on sale

Online suppliers are a great option here. Even without coverage, you’ll want to look for a Medicare-approved supplier, such as nocostshoes.com, to ensure you are getting a high-quality product. In our case, therapeutic shoes with specialty inserts cost only $99 online – much less than you would pay in a specialist’s office.

Tip #3: Check your health insurance for additional coverage options.

Some insurance companies cover orthotics for a wider range of patients, so it’s a good idea to have a closer look at your policy before paying out-of-pocket for your shoes. Contact your insurance company to clarify the conditions they may have for covering orthotics, therapeutic shoes, and other specialty items, particularly if a doctor recommends them.

If you purchase your own insurance coverage instead of getting it through an employer, it can be helpful to “shop around” for a provider with a workable policy on durable medical equipment such as therapeutic shoes. These policies can also help cover the deductible for Medicare coverage, which can eliminate out-of-pocket cost if and when you do qualify for shoes.

Additional questions? Give us a call!

At No Cost Shoes, we are diabetic shoe experts. With direct billing options to both Medicare and insurance, we know exactly how coverage works. We can also offer great, affordable options to those who are not currently eligible for coverage. For more information, call us at 1-866-923-2423.  You can also check your eligibility for coverage using our easy online portal here.

 

What are the Best Medicare-Approved Diabetic Shoe Brands?

There are a lot of things to consider when buying diabetic shoes. Besides the usual considerations of style and comfort, Americans with diabetes should also be concerned with finding a pair that is covered under Medicare and/or private insurance. This means that shoes must be purchased from an approved supplier, be properly fitted, and be custom-molded by a reputable diabetic shoe brand.

But, which companies are the most reputable in the diabetic shoe world? What are the best therapeutic shoes on the market right now? Those who are new to shopping for this kind of footwear may need some help finding a brand and look that works for them. Here is an introduction to the 7 most popular, Medicare-approved diabetic shoe brands on the market today.

Orthofeet – the neuropathy and pain relief solution

orthofeet logo diabetic shoes

Orthofeet has earned its reputation as the #1 brand recommended by podiatrists. These shoes are all about medical technology, with pain relief at the forefront of their design. For who have multiple foot or pain issues alongside diabetes, Orthofeet’s scientifically-informed designs can make a huge difference in day-to-day comfort.

Features at-a-glance:

  • Tie-less laces and heel straps for easy fastening
  • Biomechanically engineered designed to maximize pain relief
  • A high level of cushioning inside the shoe to help the whole body, including the lower back and legs
  • Stretchable material for maximum comfort

Reviews of Orthofeet shoes:

orthofeet shoes reviews diabetes
Reviews from Judge.Me/Facebook
Browse Orthofeet Diabetic shoes for women

Browse Orthofeet diabetic shoes for men

orthofeet diabetic shoes men best


Apex – the original therapeutic shoe

Apex released its first therapeutic shoe, known as “the healing shoe,” in 1971. The comfort of “the healing shoe” appealed to both people with foot conditions and those without, prompting Apex to double down on manufacturing high-quality therapeutic shoes. With a wide range of shoes of many styles and international distribution, Apex is a brand that continues to be trusted by consumers across the U.S.

Features at-a-glance:

  • Trusted brand with nearly 50 years in the therapeutic shoe industry
  • Multiple, removable layers to customize your shoe depth and easily get the perfect fit
  • Molded external heel counter
  • Padded collar and tongue to prevent heel slippage

Reviews of Apex shoes:

buyer reviews apex diabetic shoes

Browse APEX shoes for women

Browse APEX shoes for men

Apex diabetic shoes bestsellers


Anodyne – the new brand on the block

anodyne shoes logo diabetic shoesAnodyne is one of the newest diabetic shoe brands on the market. Launched in 2015 and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Anodyne’s story is no doubt a fascinating one – launched by a former VP of Dr. Comfort, the company aims to add fashion-forward sleekness to the diabetic shoe market.

Features at-a-glance:

  • Fashionable, modern design
  • A variety of shoe types including hiking boots, Mary Janes, and sneakers
  • Mirror sticker in every box to help with self-inspecting feet
  • A unique line of comfortable trail boots and running shoes for active diabetics

Reviews of Anodyne shoes:

Anodyne reviews best diabetic shoes

Browse anondyne shoes for men

 

Browse anondyne shoes for women

anodyne womens sneakers diabetes bestsellers


Dr. Comfort – the king of therapeutic inserts

dr comfort diabetic shoe brandDr. Comfort has earned its place as one of the most popular diabetic shoe brands. Founded in Mequon, Wisconsin in 2002, the company’s use of 3D technology has made it a particularly popular choice for custom inserts. Dr. Comfort’s wide range of styles and customization options has made it a podiatrist favorite.

Features at-a-glance:

  • The highest volume producer of custom diabetic inserts, with 3D printing technology used to get the fit just right
  • A great brand for first-time diabetic shoe buyers, with both prescription and non-prescription options
  • Very wide range of shoes, from athletic wear to dress shoes
  • Offers machine washable options

Reviews of Dr. Comfort shoes:

dr comfort diabetic shoe reviews

Browse DR. COMFORT shoes for women

Browse dr. comfort shoes for men

dr. comfort diabetic shoes


New Balance – the active diabetic shoe

new balance diabetic shoesWho says you need to buy diabetic shoes from specialty brands? The well-known New Balance brand also offers Medicare-approved therapeutic options for fans of its athletic shoes. Simple and designed with activity in mind, New Balance offers diabetic shoes with both laces and velcro options. A word to the wise, however – since New Balance makes shoes for non-diabetics as well, be sure to double check with your diabetic shoe provider that the shoe you’re seeking is covered.

Features at-a-glance:

  • Diabetic shoes from an athletic shoe brand, with a design optimized for movement
  • Multiple width options to fit a diverse range of foot sizes and types
Browse New Balance Diabetic shoes for women

Browse New Balance Diabetic shoes for men

new balance best diabetic shoes


Surefit – the doctor designed approach

Founded by a doctor in 2000, Surefit is a guaranteed safe bet when it comes to Medicare compliance. They seek to make great shoes accessible to medical professionals and patient alike, with several straight-forward and reliable designs that combine style, practicality and medical technology.

Features at-a-glance:

  • Prioritizes medical technology and education, with many resources for patients and podiatrists
  • Stylish, work-friendly designs
  • Variety of fastening types depending on preference and ability
Browse SUREFIT Diabetic shoes for women

Browse SUREFIT diabetic shoes for men

surefit diabetic shoes


Where to buy the best diabetic shoe brands?

Ideally, you should try to buy diabetic shoes from a supplier that:

  • Provides multiple different brands, colors, and styles to choose from;
  • Will directly bill Medicare or insurance for your shoes;
  • Provides convenient shoe fitting (our fitters can even come to you!);
  • Has a wide distribution network, so they can provide the best price for any shoes you need to pay for out-of-pocket (for example, because of our U.S.-wide distribution and large inventory, all our shoes are all on sale for $99).

No Cost Shoes checks these boxes and many more! We welcome you to order a color catalog of all the shoes we offer – with options from all the above-listed brands, you’re sure to find one you love!

What is the difference between diabetic shoes and “regular” shoes or sneakers?

There is a good reason Medicare covers a pair of diabetic shoes each year for qualified people in the United States. The risk of serious complications, up to and including loss of limbs, is very real for people with diabetes. Foot care is a must for this segment of the population, and diabetic shoes are among of the most important preventative tools available. Despite this fact, many people are still unsure whether they need diabetic shoes. What makes these therapeutic shoes different from every day, “regular” sneakers, anyway?

First, let’s clarify the basic differences – if you look closely, you’ll see there are many! Here are some of the characteristics of therapeutic shoes for people with diabetes:

First, let’s clarify the basic differences – if you look closely, you’ll see there are many! Here are some of the characteristics of therepeutic shoes for people with diabetes:

Increased depth for insoles/orthotics: Diabetic shoes have significantly more depth. This added space can accommodate orthotics or insoles (3 pairs of therepautic inserts are also covered by Medicare each year).

wide diabetic shoes sneakers

Smooth interior for blister prevention: People with diabetes are extremely prone to blisters and ulcers, so these shoes take no chances. Stitching will only be found on the outside of the shoe, while the inside remains completely smooth.

Heel counter to keep the foot in place: A heel counter is a plastic insert that reinforces the heel cup of a shoe. These are built into diabetic shoes to keep the foot in place and increase stability.

Padding for stability: Padding will be found around the collar of the ankle and the tongue of the shoe. Like the heel counter, this helps keep the foot secured in place and prevents twisted ankles and other missteps.

Increased space and protection for toe health: Unlike other shoes which aretoe box diabetic shoes for women tight around the toes, these shoes offer more space in the toebox. This is a particularly helpful feature for those with conditions like hammertoes. The toebox also has added protection, so stubbing your toe will be less of a risk to your foot health.

Non-skid soles and proper fitting to prevent falls: Twisting an ankle, tripping over feet or falling over can cause particular issues for people with diabetes, especially those who have nerve damage or pre-existing foot conditions. The stable design of these shoes, professional custom fittings, and no-slip soles can help keep wearers safe and secure.

Diabetic insoles to prevent movement within the shoe: Blisters and other injuries are often caused by an unsecured foot moving back and forth within a shoe. Multi-density diabetic insoles are a critical part of diabetic shoes (that’s why Medicare covers 3 per year!) as they help to prevent this issue.

Can people without diabetes wear these shoes?

Non-diabetics purchasing and wearing therapeutic shoes is actually fairly common! They are extremely comfortable and effective in preventing ulcers, blisters, and other issues, so feet of all kinds can find refuge in a pair.

The most inexpensive way to purchase diabetic shoes if you are not covered by Medicare is to go to an insurance-approved supplier like No Cost Shoes. While No Cost Shoes is mainly used by people approved for direct billing to insurance, it also offers the option to purchase shoes at a lower rate than most storefronts because of its wide inventory.

Can I just wear comfortable sneakers if I have diabetic neuropathy or related issues?

As you can see from the above comparison, there are major differences between even the most comfortable pair of sneakers and properly fitted diabetic shoes. Why take the risk, especially when you can get shoes completely for free through insurance and Medicare? Not only are diabetic shoes the healthier and safer option, but for many Americans, they are less costly as well.

What about special occassions or formal work meetings? Women in particular can sometimes feel pressured to take a risk with their health and wear a strappy pair of heels for “just one night.” The problem with this is that all it takes is one tiny blister to set off a chain reaction that ends with an ulcer and even a lost limb for someone with diabetes. It is a better idea to shop for some attractive therapeutic shoes that will match the occasion, such as the popular Mary Janes from Apex or the “Breeze” and “Paradise” lines from Dr. Comfort. You can find several different styles, colors and options on NoCostShoes.com.
fashion diabetic shoes brown slip on orthofeet
Orthofeet Slip-On w/ Strap Brown
apex mary jane diabetic shoes for women
Janice Black Velcro shoes from APEX
diabetic shoes for going out special occassion women
Paradise Pewter Velcro Shoes from Dr. Comfort

 

 

 

Where to Get Fitted for Diabetic Shoes

The online marketplace is buzzing with websites where you can buy diabetic shoes at the click of a button. This may seem like a convenient option, but if you’re not careful you could miss a critical step: Getting your diabetic shoe fitting from a certified and Medicare-approved shoe fitter.

Many people are surprised to learn that feet can change size from one year to the next. While all diabetic shoe brands available on nocostshoes.com are Medicare approved, picking the right one for you may require some professional help.

Why do you need to get professionally fitted for your diabetic shoes?

There are a few reasons to involve a foot care professional in selecting your diabetic shoes.

  • Medicare and insurance often require a professional fit. After all, no insurer wants to pay for shoes that hurt more than they help!
  • Improperly fitting shoes can exaserbate foot problems. When you have diabetes, even the smallest blister can turn into a life-altering ulcer. The impact of this should not be underestimated.
  • Shoe fittings are covered anyways, so why not? If you are eligible for coverage, Medicare will cover the furnishing and fitting of one pair of therepeutic shoes and three sets of inserts per year.

What is a licensed shoe fitter, exactly?

One common misconception is that a “shoe fitter” is anyone with a measuring tape who works in a shoe store. In reality, fitting people for therepeutic shoes requires a bit more expertise.

The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc (ABC) is the body that trains and certifies shoe fitters in the United States. Your insurance may require that someone with the certification “ABC Certified Fitter-Therapeutic Shoes (ABC CFts)” or an equivilant background confirm your shoe size before you order shoes.

Now we come to the most pressing question – where in the world can you find these very specific professionals?

Option #1 – Get a Medicare approved in-home shoe fitting.

For most people, the most convenient option is to arrange for an in-home shoe fitting. Medicare-approved shoe supplier Quantum Medical Supply offers fittings from certified professionals who come right to you. In-home shoe fitters can also help you to select and order shoes from approved suppliers, directly billing Medicare or insurance for cost.

To arrange for your fitting, check your eligibility at nocostshoes.com or call 1-866-923-2423.

Option #2 – Visit your Podiatrist’s office.

Podiatrists and their assistants are able to provide shoe fitting services as needed. If you are regularly seeing one of the below professionals, consider asking them about shoe fitting at your next appointment:dr with xray feet back joints why to wear orthotics

  • A podiatrist
  • An orthotist
  • A prosthetist
  • A pedorthist

If your doctor does not supply shoes directly, they may offer you a recommendation for where to purchase shoes. Having your feet measured by someone connected with the supplier is a good idea, even if your podiatrist has already taken a look. This will help you account for any differences between brands and give you an opportunity to select shoes that are comfortable for you.

Option #3 – Check with your pharmacy.

As of 2012, 25 percent of ABC Certified Fitter-Therapeutic Shoes (ABC CFts) worked in a pharmacy setting. Your pharmacy may have someone on staff with the right designation, or they may be able to refer you to a professional nearby. Pharmacies are also a good source for some types of therapeutic inserts.

Making Sure Your Shoe Fitting is Covered by Medicare

You should always confirm the credentials of your shoe fitter to ensure their services will be covered under your health care plan. The best option is to use someone who can directly bill your insurance or Medicare. This lowers your risk and confirms that they are approved to provide this service.

Finding the right pair of shoes is important, so don’t be afraid to ask for help throughout this process! You can reach out to the a diabetic shoe supplier such as nocostshoes.com, speak with your podiatrist, or contact Medicare directly to confirm the details you may need.

My Podiatrist Doesn’t Sell Diabetic Shoes Anymore. Now What?

Many people with diabetes are used to buying their diabetic shoes and inserts from their podiatrists. But as Medicare rules continue to change and tighten, doctors are increasingly choosing to no longer sell shoes directly to patients. Although this may be necessary for the viability of the clinic, it can be a challenge for both patients and doctors, who may wonder, “Where can I get diabetic shoes now that my podiatrist or doctor does not sell them?”

Podiatrists will often point their patients to nocostshoes.com. Nocostshoes.com is an easy-to-use, Medicare approved service from Quantum Medical Supplies. We offer in-home shoe fitting and diabetic shoe sales across the United States. Shoe buying services are available online or over the phone by calling 1-866-923-2423.

Whether you choose to buy shoes from nocostshoes.com or somewhere else, there are a few extra considerations you should make when purchasing shoes from someone other than a medical professional.

1. Make sure your diabetic shoe brand and supplier are Medicare approved.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when buying diabetic shoes is purchasing shoes that, while marketed as “therapeutic,” aren’t actually covered by Medicare. Medicare only approves specific brands and suppliers for coverage, so double-checking is a good idea.

There are a few ways to ensure you are purchasing Medicare or insurance approved diabetic shoes.

  • Buy your shoes from a store, shoe fitter or online supplier that offers direct billing to Medicare and insurance.
  • Contact Medicare to confirm that the shoes will be covered.
  • Check with your doctor or podiatrist to understand what specific kinds of shoes are covered under their prescription. The often have a good understanding of insurance coverage related to these items.

2. Get professionally fitted for your diabetic shoes.

Even if a podiatrist is not selling shoes to you directly, you will want a foot care professional involved in your purchase. Many insurers will only cover diabetic shoes that are custom fitted, which requires a professional shoe fitting. Custom fitted shoes are safer for your feet and more comfortable, so skipping this step is not advisable.

Even if your podiatrist no longer supplies shoes, there are a few options here:

  • Ask your podiatrist if they are able to offer a shoe fitting during your annual foot care appointment.
  • Ask your doctor for a recommendation of a professional who may be able to assist with this.
  • Book an in-home shoe fitting with No Cost Shoes. Simply call us at 1-866-923-2423 and a registered professional will come to your home to help to fit and order the best shoes for you.

3. Remember to get new shoes every year.

There’s a good reason Medicare covers a new pair of shoes each year: the material on your shoes will wear out over time, and regular replacement is critical to keeping your feet supported, comfortable and safe.

When you are not buying shoes from your podiatrist, it can be easy to forget your annual shoe purchase. Finding a new supplier and ordering shoes takes time, and many people procrastinate on this important annual purchase once their podiatrist stops supplying shoes. Here are a few tips to keep your diabetic shoes top of mind:

  • Ask your podiatrist’s office to contact you for your annual appointment (covered by Medicare) at the same time every year. Directly following this appointment, contact No Cost Shoes or visit your local therapeutic shoe supplier. After doing this for a few years in a row, it will become an easy-to-follow routine.
  • Remind your doctor and podiatrist of your need for diabetic shoes. This will ensure you get the right prescriptions each year, while also reminding you to replace your old shoes following appointments.
  • Tell a trusted family member, like a child or a spouse, about your need for diabetic shoes. They can help you to remember when it’s time to replace them.
  • Write a note in your calendar on a year from when you bought your first pair of shoes as a reminder to get a new pair.
  • If you purchase shoes from nocostshoes.com, keep an eye on your email for our annual reminder to get new shoes.

How to find a new diabetic shoe supplier near you

The internet has put many diabetic shoe brands and related products at our fingertips. Ordering online can be an easy option for many individuals – however, it’s important to double check issues like insurance coverage and proper fit before pressing “purchase.”

Whether you choose to use No Cost Shoes service or find another supplier, make sure you ask the right questions to the right people in order to keep your feet healthy and safe for the right price.

Click here or call 1-866-923-2423 to check your Medicare eligibility with No Cost Shoes.

How to Pick the Best Diabetic Walking Shoes

For people with diabetes, getting enough exercise is almost as important as a healthy diet. And when it comes to finding an easy and affordable form of exercise, it’s hard to beat good, old-fashioned walking.

But before you hit the pavement, you need to ensure you’re wearing the proper diabetic walking shoes. People with diabetes are at a high risk of developing impaired circulation in their feet and nerve damage, and wearing ill-fitting shoes can seriously increase your chances of developing a harmful condition. Since diabetes also affects the body’s ability to heal, even a minor skin irritation can lead to a lengthy recovery period.

woman walking in comfortable shoes

Here’s the good news: Medicare covers one pair of diabetic shoes and two pairs of customer inserts per year for adults with diabetes. All you need is a prescription from your doctor, size details from a qualified shoe fitter, and a supplier that is approved by Medicare (hey, that’s us!).  To learn whether you qualify for this coverage, click here.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Diabetic Walking Shoes

When choosing a diabetic walking shoe, you will want to ask yourself the following questions:

Are they comfortable?

Make sure that the toe box (front of the shoe) is wide enough for your toes to easily move around. You will also want to look for shoes with good insole cushioning and avoid shoes with interior stitching as they can cause friction that can lead to skin irritation. If you have any protrusions on your feet such as bone spurs or bunions, look for diabetic walking shoes that don’t put pressure on those areas. Another option is to look for high-quality shoes that can be stretched in those tighter spots.

Are they breathable?

Natural fabrics such as canvas, leather or suede are the best choices as they are the most breathable. Breathability is an important factor for people with diabetes to consider when picking a walking shoe as excess moisture can lead to blisters and fungal infections. Shoes with perforations or mesh inserts can also help with this.

Are they easily adjustable?

Diabetic walking shoes should be adjustable to accommodate swelling or the need for extra padding and inserts. Look for shoes with laces or buckles that can be easily loosened when needed. Velcro walking shoes usually provide the most flexibility in this area. On the other hand, open-toed shoes, thong sandals, flip-flops, and high heels are too rigid and don’t provide the necessary protection that people with diabetes require from their footwear.

The Best Walking Shoes for Diabetes

new balance women's walking shoes diabetes beige velcro

New Balance Women’s Diabetic Shoes
These shoes offer a padded interior for extra comfort and their velcro closure make them easily adjustable.

walking shoes diabetes men dr. comfort black

Dr Comfort Men’s Diabetic Shoes 
The mesh tongue adds breathability while the wide toe box offers ample room for movement.

orthofeet diabetic walking shoes

Orthofeet Men’s Diabetic Shoes
The perforations along the sides and toe box of this pair add much-needed breathability.

How to Pick the Best Diabetic Walking Shoes for You

The most important thing when picking diabetic walking shoes is to ensure the size is correct. This will allow for proper circulation. Your feet can change size and shape over time, so most insurance companies and Medicare require you to repeat this step each time you get new shoes. Set up an appointment with your podiatrist to have this done, or use No Cost Shoes’ easy and free service to have a trusted professional come to your home for a shoe fitting.

When you try on your shoes, make sure you’re wearing the type of sock or stocking you would typically wear. You will also want to bring any orthotics and inserts that you will be using with your shoes.

So You’ve Picked Your Shoe, Now What?

While picking a well-fitting shoe is a big part of proper foot care, there are not the only thing you should do to keep your feet healthy and happy. Try to reduce pressure on your feet by alternating your walking shoes every five hours or by giving your feet time to breath. You will also want to promote proper blood circulation by taking the time to extend your toes and move your ankles up and down ever three to four hours. If you notice any sores, blisters or swelling on your feet, alert your doctor immediately. Prompt treatment is critical to prevent minor injuries from developing into potentially life-threatening issues.

Finding your perfect pair of diabetic walking shoes doesn’t have to be a chore. As long as you keep the above recommendations in mind, you will be walking away in a comfortable pair in no time.

No Cost Shoes streamlines the process of getting a insurance and Medicare-covered shoes by sending a prescription to your physician, providing an in-home shoe fitting, and direct billing your insurance.