THE COST OF YOUR SHOES MAY BE COVERED BY MEDICARE
DIABETES AND YOUR FEET
MONITOR YOUR FOOT HEALTH
THE IMPORTANCE OF A FOOT EXAMINATION
WHY FOOTWEAR MATTERS
Diabetic shoes are specifically designed for foot protection , pressure relief and support . These shoes feature extra depth to accommodate prescribed inserts to ensure that your feet are protected and comfortable throughout the day .
THE COST OF YOUR SHOES MAY BE COVERED BY MEDICARE
The 1993 Theraputic Shoe Bill covers a pair of shoes and inserts every calendar year . Protective footwear can reduce complications of the foot and the number of diabetic amputations .
Coverage is limited to shoes and inserts meeting certain requirements for patients with specific clinical conditions .
Ask your healthcare professional for more information
DIABETES AND YOUR FEET
Diabetes can develop from a lack of insulin production or the inability of insulin to perform its normal everyday functions . People with diabetes can develop foot problems which can lead to very serious complications .
NEUROPATHY
60 - 70 % of the over 29 million Americans suffering from diabetes are estimated to have nerve damage . People suffering from neuropathy may not feel minor cuts , scrapes , blisters , or pressure sores . If these minor injuries are left untreated , infection may result and lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation .
POOR CIRCULATION
Diabetes often leads to peripheral vascular disease . Poor circulation reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients supplied to the skin and other tissue , inhibiting the healing of injuries . Poor circulation can also lead to dryness of the skin . Preventing foot complications is more critical for the patient with diabetes , since poor circulation impairs the healing process and can lead to ulcers , infection and other serious foot conditions .
MONITOR YOUR FOOT HEALTH
Start today with a podiatric foot exam
THE IMPORTANCE OF A FOOT EXAMINATION
A Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam ( CDFE ) is performed by a podiatrist to determine your risk of developing serious wounds that could lead to infection and amputation .
Your podiatrist will check your sensory perception ( feeling ), circulation , and your orthopedic foot structure . The findings of your CDFE will determine your eligibility to receive Medicare coverage for diabetic footwear and inserts through Medicare ’ s Therapeutic Shoe Program .
If the CDFE determines that your feet are at increased risk of ulceration , your podiatrist may prescribe shoes that are covered by a special Medicare program .
YOUR DAILY CARE
Daily observation of the feet is critical . By taking the necessary preventative footcare measures , you can help reduce the risks of serious foot conditions .
FOOT HEALTH CARE TIPS
• Inspect your feet daily for blisters , cuts and scratches . Always check for cracks in the skin between your toes .
• Wear shoes that are designed to protect your feet from injury .
• Wash your feet daily and dry carefully .
• Avoid extreme temperatures . Test water with your hands or elbow before bathing .
• If your feet feel cold at night , wear socks .
• Inspect the insides of your shoes for foreign objects and rough areas .
• Shoes should be fitted by a footcare specialist and be comfortable at the time of purchase .
• See your podiatrist regularly
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