| Proper foot care is an important part of diabetes
management. In fact, diabetics are at an extremely increased risk of
serious foot disorders. Foot problems are the most common diabetes
complication leading to hospitalizations. Ulcers or sores on the feet can
be caused by improper shoe gear that can result in infection and possible
amputations. {TOP} |
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| Studies show that the well fitted diabetic shoes with
moldable insoles reduce the development of these ulcers and sores.
By starting preventative measures early, it is possible to avoid later
foot complications and will enable you to maintain an independent active
lifestyle. This is why the Dr. Zen Ther Shoes and Insoles are
an excellent first step towards better foot health. {TOP} |
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| The condition of your feet is addressed by the physician who
is familiar with the patient. Dr. Zen Shoes are for the patient at
risk for foot complications. Especially if the patient already
has any type of mild foot deformity, ulcer or amputation. Nothing can
replace the experience in the shoe designed by Dr. Zen.
{TOP} |
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| The prescription shoes should have enough room to
accommodate the foot. It should also be roomy enough for any
deformities present. Shoe should be designed to have support on the
plantar (sole) surface to cushion high pressure areas. Poorly fitted
footwear is one of the commonest causes of ulceration. Dr. Zen
Therapeutic Shoes meet all of these specifications. {TOP} |
How often should I wear my Dr. Zen prescription shoes?
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Patients at risk must use
correct footwear at all times. Inappropriate footwear is a common
cause of skin ulcers. DR. ZEN shoes can be prescribed by a foot care
specialist or a primary care physician.
The correct shoe should be worn
for different activities. If the correct shoe is not available for
the activity, the diabetic should not participate in that activity. DR.
ZEN shoes are great for comfort and style, as well as the therapeutic
value. Most activities can be enjoyed with the DR. ZEN diabetic
shoe. {TOP}
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| Shoes MUST be worn all of the time. Anytime there is weight
on the feet, indoors or out, a proper fitted shoe should be worn. A
shoe should be worn, even for trips to the bathroom at night. The diabetic
patient should sit in a chair in the shower, rather than stand without
shoes. Swim shoes are recommended for pool activities.
Activities, such as running, tennis, baseball, and other sports that
produce high stress on the feet should be avoided entirely. Bicycle
is a good over all exercise that does not require foot stress. The
diabetic patient should check his/her feet at least twice a day for
ulcerations. {TOP} |
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| The footwear for the diabetic patient is prescribed by a
doctor. Most patients who are at risk for complications are referred
to a foot care professional for routine nail and callus care. Footwear
issues are typically addressed by the professional who performs these
services. Many times however, the primary care clinician becomes involved
in the footwear prescription and/or assessment.
The primary care physician is not always "up to speed" as to the
principles of proper diabetic footwear. We will be glad to
talk to your doctor to explain the benefits of DR. ZEN shoes. {TOP} |
My feet swell. Will Dr. Zen Diabetic Shoes help?
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| Diabetic feet tend to swell at different times of the day.
DR. ZEN shoes have a Velcro closure to allow this adjustment and leave
enough room for the swelling. Compression Socks can be worn also, for
extra support for high volume swelling.{TOP} |
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| Leather shoes without these insoles can be as bad as walking
barefooted. The insoles must have enough room for the toes.
The insole should be changed every 4-6 months, or when it appears
worn-out. This should be fitted by a professional. DR. ZEN
prescription insoles are recommended with the DR. ZEN shoe.{TOP} |
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| Diabetic Insoles are typically made of ALIPLAST or PPT/Plastizote.
PROCELL has a number of advantages over ALIPLAST or PPT/Plastizote and
other more open materials. The closer structure of PROCELL reduces
impression and keeps the orthosis from bottoming out. The material is less
abrasive to the surface skin. The protection and cushioning of the foot
reduces friction and evenly distributes weight throughout the othosis.
The contoured design ensures a good fit inside DR. ZEN THERAPEUTIC SHOES.
This insole should be changed 2-3 times a year{TOP} |
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| Patients who will not use proper foot wear, many times
will have surgery to try to "CURE" the problem. Surgery does NOT
cure the problem. Surgery can "repair" clawed toes, remove
exostoses (bony growth caused by trauma) on toes, correct hallux valgus
(bending of big toe inward), reconstruct Charcot feet, and lengthen the
Achilles tendon. Surgery offers relief to patients with good
circulation and neuropath ulceration that will not stay healed because the
patient refuses to wear a proper fit shoe. But some of the
problems being repaired by surgery can reoccur, so proper shoes are
imperative. The comfort of a DR. ZEN shoe will be recognized fast
and make it enjoyable to walk again. {TOP} |
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| A diabetic who is involved in a comprehensive diabetic
management regimen, is eligible for re-imbursement of some of the footwear
costs. The diabetic patient can order one pair of shoes from DR. ZEN
and 3 pair of inserts per year, and expect to be reimbursed by Medicare,
80% of the cost of the shoes and inserts. Many insurance companies will
also reimburse in line with Medicare. {TOP} |