Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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What is an offloading footwear?

• Offloading footwear is a type of special shoe that is designed to help reduce pressure on the feet of people with diabetic foot ulcers. These shoes are typically designed with a wider toe box, more supportive heel, and other features that help distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduce pressure on the areas that are prone to ulcers. They can also have special insoles or other inserts that provide additional cushioning and support to help prevent the development of ulcers.

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Why do I need an offloading footwear?

• If you have a diabetic foot ulcer, offloading footwear can be an important part of your treatment plan. Diabetic foot ulcers are caused by a combination of factors, including poor circulation, nerve damage, and excessive pressure on the feet. Offloading footwear can help reduce pressure on the feet and promote healing by redistributing weight evenly across the foot and providing additional cushioning and support. By using offloading footwear, you can help prevent the development of new ulcers and reduce the risk of complications from existing ulcers. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using offloading footwear, as they can help you determine the best type of shoe for your needs and make sure it fits properly.

• Download our flyer here for more ordering information.

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How can I prevent diabetic foot ulcers?

There are several steps you can take to prevent diabetic foot ulcers, including:

1. Maintaining good blood sugar control: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, which can lead to foot ulcers. By keeping your blood sugar levels within a healthy range, you can reduce the risk of developing ulcers.

2. Monitoring your feet regularly: Check your feet daily for any cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling, and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

3. Keeping your feet clean and dry: Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Avoid walking barefoot, and wear socks that fit well and do not rub against your skin.

4. Avoiding excessive pressure on your feet: Avoid activities that put a lot of pressure on your feet, such as running or jumping. Wear shoes that fit well and provide good support, and avoid wearing high heels or tight shoes.

5. Quitting smoking: Smoking can decrease blood flow to your feet, which can slow the healing of ulcers and increase the risk of infection. Quitting smoking can help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of developing ulcers.

6. Getting regular check-ups: Make sure to see your healthcare provider regularly for foot exams and other check-ups. Your provider can help identify any potential problems early and provide treatment to prevent the development of ulcers.

 

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FAQs by Product

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Orthowedge Offloading Shoe with Forefront Wedge (available here)

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• What is it used for?​​

Healing wounds at the forefront of the foot by offloading pressure.

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• How effective is it?

Moderately effective.

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• What should I expect?

You will have to be reviewed in the clinic as per your clinician’s advice or regular wound care (if any). You will need to slowly adjust and get used to the weight of the cast and the shoe for walking. We advise to wear a similar height shoe (i.e. sports shoe) on your other foot to ensure you are balanced when walking.​

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• What should I look out for?

If you experience any pain or discomfort as a result of wearing the shoe (such as rubbing), please stop using it and seek advice from your podiatrist or visit A&E as appropriate. Similarly, if you notice any signs of infection, such as pain, warmth, or pus from the wound, or symptoms such as fever or chills, please stop using the shoe and seek medical attention.

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• How do I measure my size?

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Offloading Aircast Boot (available here)

 

• What is it used for?

Healing wounds at the bottom of the foot by spreading pressure across the lower leg.

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• How effective is it?

It is extremely effective only if used at all times when putting weight on foot/weight-bearing.

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• What should I expect?

You will have to be reviewed in the clinic as per your clinician’s advice or regular wound care (if any). As the boot is slightly heavy, it will take some time to adjust to walking with it. We advise to wear a similar height shoe (i.e. sports shoe) on your other foot to ensure you are balanced when walking.

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• What should I look out for?

If you experience any pain or discomfort as a result of wearing the shoe (such as rubbing), please stop using it and seek advice from your podiatrist or visit A&E as appropriate. Similarly, if you notice any signs of infection, such as pain, warmth, or pus from the wound, or symptoms such as fever or chills, please stop using the shoe and seek medical attention.

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Surgical Sandal (Available here)

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• What is it used for?

Healing wounds at the bottom of the foot.

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• How effective is it?

Mildly effective.

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• What should I expect?

You will have to be reviewed in the clinic as per your clinician’s advice or regular wound care (if any). As the sandal is slightly heavy, it will take some time to adjust to walking with it. We advise to wear a similar height shoe (i.e. sports shoe) on your other foot to ensure you are balanced when walking.

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• What should I look out for?

If you experience any pain or discomfort as a result of wearing the shoe (such as rubbing), please stop using it and seek advice from your podiatrist or visit A&E as appropriate. Similarly, if you notice any signs of infection, such as pain, warmth, or pus from the wound, or symptoms such as fever or chills, please stop using the shoe and seek medical attention.

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