Diabetic shoes are recommended by doctors for diabetic patients. The objective of wearing such recommended shoes is to relieve several diabetes problems like poor circulation and peripheral neuropathy in the lower limbs. These shoes are extremely effective in the prevention and treatment of many forms of foot ulcers, as well as a variety of foot and toe-related conditions. As a result, the global diabetic shoes market is expected to increase in the coming years as the significance of these shoes rises.
The diabetic footwear market in North America and Europe is increasing at an exceptional rate, driven by the increasing incidence of diabetes and an intensified focus on preventive healthcare.
Also, the rise of digital platforms has changed the shopping habits. A report by Eurostat indicated that 68% of diabetic footwear sales in Europe appeared online in 2022, emphasizing the change from conventional brick-and-mortar stores. Moreover, brand commitment is tangible. A CDC survey indicates that 55% of American consumers preferred buying from brands they have used before, highlighting the competitive nature of the market. The average spending on diabetic footwear, according to the same report, is US$ 150, showing the willingness of the consumers to invest in health and quality. In addition to this, according to the research report of Astute Analytica, the North America and Europe diabetic footwear market is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.09% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2031.
The top 3 health benefits of diabetic footwear are: –
Better motion control
This particular diabetic shoe feature supports foot stability and function, but it is also useful in relieving pain and reducing inflammation. Essentially, the more motion the foot undergoes, the more likely it is that a problem can be created. Abnormal biomechanics can result in too much stress being placed on areas of the feet not prepared to tolerate them. Diabetic shoes handle the foot motion in a more natural and neutral pattern.
Decreased shock
Shock is a term used to define the vertical pressure a foot takes. People place a lot of pressure on their feet when they take steps. Every time a foot lands, it has to take the force of about two times the body weight. This can be a problem when diabetes is in the picture since the high level of shock can potentially hurt bones weakened by poor circulation which is a common problem with diabetes. Diabetic footwear delivers elevated cushioning to better protect the feet.
Reduced shear
Whereas shock refers to vertical pressure, shear is the horizontal movement of a foot within a shoe. This is necessary to know because shear is accountable for blisters. Blisters might not be a major problem for an otherwise healthy individual, but they can break down and become diabetic foot ulcers. These ulcers are a leading cause of lower limb amputation, so it is important to prevent them from growing by wearing footwear that decreases the amount of shear foot experiences.