Obese people are prone to many foot maladies, the most severe of which can lead to infection, amputation and life-threatening complications. Therefore, obese individuals should take a special interest in foot care. Finding the best fitting shoes is a step in the right direction. Good shoes are more expensive, but they can save money in medical expenses over time, and can even save life and limb. Wearing diabetic shoes or other specially designed footwear can prevent dermatitis, foot ulcers and amputations, and the medical bills that accompany them. If you are obese, choose shoes that address these three common issues.
Abrasion
Abrasion between shoes and feet can cause skin problems and deep-tissue degradation, leading to more serious conditions. Osteoarthritis or plantar fasciitis, prevalent in obese people, can make feet more sensitive to abrasion. Consider shoe material and fit your top priority in order to prevent abrasion.
The uppers of diabetic shoes are often made of soft leather or synthetics that won't rub the tops of your feet. Note where the shoes' ankle rolls fall on your anatomy. Ensure that they don't touch the protruding part of your ankle joint. If you have corns or bunions, perform regular foot care and choose shoes that don't interfere with bandages. Ample room in the toe box should give you enough space to wiggle your toes. The American Podiatric Medical Association suggests staying away from open-toed shoes and sandals with a thong between the toes; these are notorious abraders.
Circulation
Obese people are also at high risk for venous stasis dermatitis, a skin condition that can affect the lower legs and feet because of poor circulation. It is accompanied by periodic swelling. Without adequate foot care, dermatitis can progress to more severe tissue damage. Diabetic shoes are often prescribed to guard against this eventuality.
Individuals with cardiovascular problems need nonrestrictive footwear to allow blood to flow as freely as possible to the lower extremities. The problem for those who are obese is that they also need a stable foundation for carrying extra weight. The best fitting diabetic shoes have the ability to expand when feet swell or to accommodate prescription orthotic devices. Try a comfort shoe with a wraparound style that fastens with Velcro.
Stability
Obese people sometimes have trouble keeping their balance. A sturdy heel cup can help with stability in a nonrestrictive shoe. Look for a wide footbed and thick soles. No high heels! Getting a professional measurement will leave less room for error.
For optimum stability, the upper material should be stiff enough to offer some support, but soft enough not to cause abrasion. Leather, rather than fabric, can contribute to the best fitting shoe. Make sure that the shoes you buy have removable footbeds to accommodate padding, orthotics or other prescribed foot care.
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