Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
Diabetic Shoes and Medicare Coverage 2026: What Your Podiatrist Wants You to Know
![Diabetic Foot Treatment 101 [Symptoms, Pain Relief & Home PREVENTION]](https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/wp-content/cache/flying-press/621d00a2248b02310f4e36c5132d7883.jpg)
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle: Diabetic Foot & Circulation Screening →
Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: April 2, 2026
Quick Answer: Medicare Part B covers one pair of therapeutic diabetic shoes plus 3 pairs of inserts per year under the Therapeutic Shoe Bill. You need a qualifying diabetes diagnosis and a prescription from your treating physician. In our clinic, we help patients navigate this process and ensure proper fitting for maximum protection.
In This Guide
Last Updated: March 2026 | Reading Time: 10 min
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Schedule an appointment for personalized care.
Watch: Diabetic Foot Care 101 — Podiatrist Guide
Watch Dr. Tom explain diabetic foot problems, shoe selection, and when to seek professional care:
Book your diabetic foot evaluation → | (810) 206-1402
Diabetic Shoes & Medicare Coverage 2026: A Podiatrist’s Complete Guide
Updated March 2026 — Medicare covers therapeutic shoes for qualified diabetic patients. Dr. Tom Biernacki explains exactly who qualifies, what’s covered, and which shoes we prescribe for our diabetic patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.
✓ Double Board-Certified Podiatrists
✓ 5,000+ Patients/Year
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Our recommendations are based on clinical experience treating 5,000+ patients annually — not commissions. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Benefit (HCPCS A5500): Medicare Part B covers one pair of diabetic shoes and three pairs of custom molded inserts per calendar year for qualifying patients. This can save patients $400–$800+ annually. Dr. Biernacki can prescribe these during your annual diabetic foot exam.
🔬 Our 4 Non-Negotiables: What We Look For in Every Shoe
Every shoe recommended on this page meets ALL FOUR of these clinical criteria:
1. Structured Heel Counter
Keeps the rearfoot stable and prevents wobbling that strains tendons and ligaments.
2. Torsional Rigidity
The midfoot shouldn’t twist easily. Rigidity prevents arch collapse during gait.
3. Forefoot Flex Grooves
The shoe should flex at the metatarsal heads — not the midfoot — for natural toe-off.
4. Removable Insole
Deep insole cavity accommodates custom orthotics or allows room for swelling.
Who Qualifies for Medicare Diabetic Shoes?
To qualify, you must have diabetes AND at least one of the following:
✓ Peripheral neuropathy with callus formation
✓ History of pre-ulcerative callus
✓ History of foot ulceration
✓ Foot deformity (bunions, hammertoes, Charcot foot)
✓ Prior lower extremity amputation
✓ Poor circulation (peripheral arterial disease)
Our Top Diabetic Shoe Picks
🏆 #1 Best A5500 Therapeutic ShoeMedicare A5500
Dr. Comfort William-X
- MEN’S DOUBLE DEPTH CASUAL SHOE - A sleek, casual shoe designed with extra depth for comfort and support.
- DOUBLE DEPTH SHOE - Constructed with extra depth to accommodate extra volume for severe edema, internal braces, and AFOs.
- CONTACT CLOSURE - Single hook and loop fastener for comfort, support, and a great fit
- LEATHER UPPERS - Natural material to help regulate heat and keep feet cool and dry
- PROTECTIVE TOE BOX - Protective toe box provides extra protection from toe stubbing
DROPLow
STACKExtra Depth
TYPETherapeutic
WIDTHSB/D/2E/4E/6E
Why We Recommend It: The gold standard Medicare A5500-coded diabetic shoe. Double-depth construction accommodates thick custom orthotics, wound dressings, or significant edema. The seamless bamboo lining eliminates friction points that cause ulceration, and the protective toe box prevents stubbing injuries in neuropathic patients. HSA/FSA eligible.
✅ Best For:
Diabetic neuropathy, foot ulcer prevention, patients with Medicare coverage, patients with significant foot deformities
⚠️ Not Ideal For:
Patients seeking athletic performance or fashion-forward styling
🥇 #2 Best Budget Diabetic Shoe
Orthofeet Sprint
- Tie-Less Lacing System eliminates the need to tie laces. Heel strap enables to adjust the grip around the heel. Cushioning sole with a mild Rocker adds spring to your step. Soft, padded fabric interior with no overlays eliminates irritation.
DROPLow
STACKOrthopedic
TYPETherapeutic Athletic
WIDTHSB/D/2E/4E
Why We Recommend It: For patients who want a more athletic-looking diabetic shoe, the Orthofeet Sprint provides a seamless interior, extra depth for custom inserts, and a mild rocker sole for easier toe-off. Available in orthopedic widths. A good self-pay option for patients who want diabetic shoe features without the Medicare coding process.
✅ Best For:
Diabetic patients wanting a modern athletic look, patients with Medicare who prefer a sneaker style
⚠️ Not Ideal For:
Patients with severe foot deformities (the Dr. Comfort William-X provides more accommodation)
DOES THIS DESCRIBE YOU?
✗ You have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and have never had a Medicare diabetic shoe fitting
✗ You have an open wound, ulcer, or non-healing sore on your foot
✗ Your doctor has mentioned “peripheral neuropathy” or reduced sensation in your feet
✗ You’ve had a diabetic foot amputation or hospitalization in the past
→ Medicare Part B covers diabetic shoes + 3 pairs of insoles annually for qualifying patients. Most patients with diabetes qualify — don’t leave this benefit unused.
📞 (810) 206-1402 | Check Your Medicare Diabetic Shoe Coverage →
Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI | We are Medicare-certified for diabetic footwear⚕️ DR. TOM’S COMPLETE MEDICARE DIABETIC SHOE PROTOCOL:
Step 1: GET CERTIFIED → Your primary care physician must certify your diabetes diagnosis and foot risk in the same calendar year
Step 2: GET FITTED → Visit a podiatrist or certified shoe fitter for your Medicare diabetic shoe fitting
Step 3: RIGHT SHOE → Orthofeet, Drew, or Apex Medicare-certified extra-depth diabetic shoes
Step 4: DAILY ROUTINE → Wear shoes all waking hours, inspect feet nightly, moisturize heels and soles (not between toes)
[Medicare covers up to $140-180 for diabetic shoes + $65/pair for insoles — check your specific plan for exact amounts]DOES THIS DESCRIBE YOU?
✗ You have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and have never had a Medicare diabetic shoe fitting
✗ You have an open wound, ulcer, or non-healing sore on your foot
✗ Your doctor has mentioned “peripheral neuropathy” or reduced sensation in your feet
✗ You’ve had a diabetic foot amputation or hospitalization in the past
→ Medicare Part B covers diabetic shoes + 3 pairs of insoles annually for qualifying patients. Most patients with diabetes qualify — don’t leave this benefit unused.
📞 (810) 206-1402 | Check Your Medicare Diabetic Shoe Coverage →
Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI | We are Medicare-certified for diabetic footwear
Clinical Note: A 65-year-old diabetic woman didn’t know her Medicare plan covered diabetic shoes. After a brief certification visit with her doctor and a fitting with us, she received 3 pairs of quality diabetic shoes at no out-of-pocket cost.
Clinical Note: A 70-year-old diabetic patient had worn regular athletic shoes for years despite neuropathy. After fitting with Medicare-covered Orthofeet extra-depth shoes and custom insoles, he had zero pressure ulcers in 2+ years of follow-up.
Quick Comparison: Medicare-Eligible Diabetic Shoes
| Shoe | Medicare Eligible | Depth | Best For | Price (OOP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orthofeet Sprint | ✅ Yes | Extra Deep | Active diabetic patients | Often $0 with Medicare |
| Drew Shoe Balance | ✅ Yes | Extra Deep | Dress/casual diabetic | Often $0 with Medicare |
| Apex Biomechanical | ✅ Yes | Extra Deep | High-risk diabetic feet | Often $0 with Medicare |
| New Balance 928v3 | Check plan | Wide | Budget diabetic option | $$ |
| Propét Stability Walker | Check plan | Wide | Diabetic walker | $$ |
More Podiatrist-Recommended Diabetic Essentials
Diabetic-Approved Walking Shoe
Orthofeet Sprint — seamless, extra-depth, designed for neuropathic feet.
Seamless Diabetic Sock
OS1st FS4 — non-binding, moisture-wicking, protects fragile diabetic skin.
Recovery Slide for Indoor Wear
HOKA Ora 3 — protects diabetic feet from barefoot injury at home.
As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on clinical experience; prices and availability shown above update live from Amazon.
When to See a Podiatrist
One unnoticed blister on a neuropathic foot can become a limb-threatening ulcer in under 14 days. Medicare covers diabetic shoes (A5500) and comprehensive foot exams annually for most diabetic patients with neuropathy or circulation concerns. Balance Foot & Ankle runs a dedicated diabetic limb-preservation program — vascular screening, offloading, ulcer care, and shoe fitting — all in one visit. Schedule your annual diabetic foot exam today.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get Medicare to cover my diabetic shoes?
The process has 3 steps: (1) Your prescribing physician documents your diabetes and qualifying condition in your chart; (2) Dr. Biernacki writes the shoe prescription and documents medical necessity; (3) A Medicare-certified supplier fits you with the shoes. We can coordinate all three steps at Balance Foot & Ankle.
Can I pick any shoes with Medicare?
No — the shoes must be HCPCS A5500-coded (extra-depth diabetic shoes) and fitted by a Medicare-certified pedorthist or podiatrist. You cannot use standard retail shoes for the Medicare benefit, even if they seem appropriate.
How often does Medicare cover new diabetic shoes?
Once per calendar year (one pair of shoes and up to three pairs of inserts). This resets January 1st. Plan your annual diabetic foot exam to coincide with this timeline.
📚 Complete Podiatrist Shoe Guide Library
📧 Get Dr. Tom’s Free Lab Test Guide
Discover the 5 lab tests every person over 35 should ask their doctor about — explained in plain English by a board-certified physician.
Every guide is written by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Double Board-Certified Podiatrist with 950,000+ YouTube subscribers and 5,000+ patients treated annually.
🏠 Complete Shoe Guide Hub
🦶 Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
⚡ Best Shoes for Neuropathy & Diabetes
🏥 Best Shoes for Nurses
🏃 Best Running Shoes
👟 Women’s Running Shoes
👠 Women’s Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
🦶 Best Shoes for Bunions
📐 Best Shoes for Flat Feet
🚶 Best Walking Shoes
🧍 Best Shoes for Standing All Day
💥 Best Shoes for Heel Pain
🩴 Best Sandals with Arch Support
⬆️ Best Shoes for High Arches
👞 Best Dress Shoes for Foot Pain
📍 🏛️ Diabetic Shoes & Medicare
You are here
🔧 Best Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis
🧩 Best Orthotic-Friendly Shoes
🏠 Best Slippers with Arch Support
🔴 Best Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma
🥾 Best Work Boots for Foot Support
🧩 Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Double Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Balance Foot & Ankle · Michigan
Dr. Biernacki has personally evaluated and recommended footwear for 5,000+ patients annually. He has 950,000+ YouTube subscribers and is a frequent speaker on diabetic limb salvage, sports medicine, and conservative foot care.
Still Not Sure Which Shoe Is Right for You?
Book a gait analysis and shoe fitting consultation at Balance Foot & Ankle. Dr. Biernacki will assess your arch type, gait pattern, and foot mechanics to give you a personalized recommendation.
📞 Call us at (810) 206-1402 · Serving Southeast Michigan
📚 Related Conditions — Patients Who Read This Also Found Helpful:
- Understanding neuropathy helps you choose the right diabetic shoe.
Best Shoes for Neuropathy & Diabetic Feet → - Diabetic socks are as important as diabetic shoes.
Podiatrist Recommended Socks → - Daily foot care prevents diabetic complications.
Podiatrist Recommended Foot Care Products →
Related Treatment Guides
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
- Bunion Treatment
Related Guides
Diabetic Foot Care → | Neuropathy Treatment → | Diabetic Shoes Michigan → | Custom Orthotics →
When to see a podiatrist about diabetic footwear:
- You have diabetes and have never had a professional shoe fitting
- Numbness or tingling in your feet (peripheral neuropathy)
- History of foot ulcers or amputations
- Your current shoes cause blisters, calluses, or pressure sores
- You need help navigating Medicare coverage for therapeutic shoes
Medical References & Sources
- American Diabetes Association — Foot Complications
- PubMed Research — Diabetic Foot Care
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Diabetic Foot
In-Office Treatment Available
Regular podiatry care is essential for people with diabetes — the American Diabetes Association recommends annual comprehensive foot exams. Dr. Tom provides Medicare-covered diabetic shoe fittings, wound care, nail and callus management, and neuropathy monitoring.
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for Diabetic Foot Care
📍 Located in Michigan?
Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
These are products I personally use and recommend to my patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.
- Dr. Comfort Men’s Paradise Diabetic Shoe — Medicare-covered diabetic shoe with seamless interior — eliminates pressure points that cause diabetic ulcers
- Foundation Wellness DASS Diabetic Socks — 30% commission (Levanta) — non-binding, seamless toe, moisture-wicking diabetic socks protecting neuropathic feet
- Derma Sciences Bordered Gauze Dressings — Non-adherent wound dressing ideal for diabetic foot wound management between podiatry visits
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Insoles
PowerStep is the brand I prescribe most — medical-grade OTC support without the custom orthotic price tag.
- PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — The OTC orthotic I recommend most — medical-grade arch support at a fraction of custom orthotic cost. Works in most shoes.
- PowerStep Maxx Insoles — For severe arch pain or flat feet — maximum correction and support when Pinnacle isn’t enough.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
Join 950,000+ Learning About Foot Health
Dr. Tom shares honest medical advice, supplement reviews, and treatment guides you won’t find anywhere else.
In-Office Diabetic Foot Care at Balance Foot & Ankle
At our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices, Dr. Tom Biernacki provides comprehensive diabetic foot evaluations including monofilament testing for neuropathy, vascular assessment, custom 3D orthotic fitting (covered by Medicare Part B), and therapeutic shoe prescriptions. We work directly with Medicare to ensure your diabetic shoe benefit is fully utilized — most patients qualify for one pair of therapeutic shoes plus three pairs of inserts annually at no out-of-pocket cost.
Learn about our diabetic foot care services → | Custom 3D orthotics →
Need diabetic shoe fitting? (810) 206-1402 | Book your appointment →
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Diabetic Foot Products
PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — The OTC orthotic I recommend most in our clinic. Medical-grade arch support reduces pressure points that cause diabetic ulcers. Use as interim support while waiting for custom orthotics. Not ideal for: replacing Medicare-covered custom orthotics for severe neuropathy.
Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula for diabetic foot pain. Not ideal for: application on open wounds or ulcers.
DASS Medical Compression Socks (15-20mmHg) — Graduated compression improves circulation in diabetic feet. Seamless toe construction prevents friction injuries. Not ideal for: patients with peripheral arterial disease (ABI <0.9) — compression can worsen arterial insufficiency.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission on purchases. This does not affect our clinical recommendations.
Browse all diabetic foot products → Shop Now | Foundation Wellness Products
Related Diabetic Foot Care Guides
- Diabetic Foot Care Routine Checklist
- EMS Foot Massager for Diabetic Neuropathy
- Best Shoes for Neuropathy
- Best Supplements for Neuropathy
- Diabetic Foot Care Hub
- Custom Orthotics Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetic Shoes & Medicare
Does Medicare cover diabetic shoes?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers one pair of therapeutic shoes plus three pairs of inserts per calendar year under the Therapeutic Shoe Program. You need a prescription from your treating physician confirming diabetes and a qualifying foot condition (neuropathy, foot deformity, calluses, poor circulation, or history of ulceration). Dr. Tom’s office handles the Medicare paperwork and fitting at Balance Foot & Ankle.
What is the difference between diabetic shoes and regular shoes?
Diabetic shoes have deeper toe boxes (preventing pressure on neuropathic toes), seamless interiors (eliminating friction points that cause ulcers), firm heel counters (stabilizing gait), and removable insoles (accommodating custom orthotics). They are manufactured to ASTM standards for therapeutic footwear — regular shoes, even comfortable ones, do not meet these specifications.
How often can I get new diabetic shoes through Medicare?
Medicare covers one pair of therapeutic shoes per calendar year. You can also receive three pairs of custom inserts (or one pair of custom-molded shoes if qualifying conditions are met). Coverage resets January 1 each year. Schedule your fitting early in the year to maximize your benefit. Call (810) 206-1402.
⚠️ Most Common Mistake With Medicare Diabetic Shoes
The most common mistake we see is patients waiting until they develop a foot wound before asking about Medicare diabetic shoe benefits. Medicare Part B covers one pair of diabetic shoes and up to three pairs of custom insoles per calendar year for qualifying patients — but you must have a documented diagnosis of diabetes and a podiatrist certify medical necessity. I have patients who went years without claiming this benefit simply because no one told them it existed. If you have diabetes, ask us at your next appointment whether you qualify. It costs you nothing to check.
The Bottom Line
Medicare-covered diabetic shoes are a critical part of preventing serious foot complications. In our clinic, we see too many diabetic patients wearing improper footwear that leads to ulcers, infections, and even amputations. The right therapeutic shoes with proper inserts can dramatically reduce your risk. If you have diabetes and qualify, there is no reason not to take advantage of this benefit — one pair of shoes and three pairs of custom inserts per calendar year at little to no out-of-pocket cost.
Need Help With Medicare Diabetic Shoes?
We handle the Medicare paperwork and ensure proper fitting at our Howell & Bloomfield Hills locations
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
💊 Did you know Medicare covers diabetic shoes? Ask us how to qualify.
📞 (810) 206-1402 | Book Online →
Same-day appointments. Howell & Bloomfield Hills. Most insurance accepted.
Medicare Covers Your Diabetic Shoes — We Handle Everything
Qualifying diabetic patients receive one pair of therapeutic shoes and 3 pairs of custom inserts per year through Medicare. Our office manages the entire process from certification to fitting.
Clinical References
- Bus SA, et al. “Effectiveness of therapeutic footwear for the diabetic foot.” Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews. 2008;24(S1):S162-S180.
- American Diabetes Association. “Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes — 2024.” Diabetes Care. 2024;47(Supplement 1):S231-S243.
- Lavery LA, et al. “Preventing diabetic foot ulcer recurrence in high-risk patients.” Diabetes Care. 2007;30(1):14-20.
👟 Dr. Tom’s Complete Footwear Library
Podiatrist-Approved Guides for Every Foot Type & Condition
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist
All guides are written and reviewed by licensed podiatrists. Schedule an appointment →
Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for diabetic foot care
Advantages
- ✓ Daily inspection prevents amputation
- ✓ Most insurance covers DME
- ✓ Custom orthotics help
Considerations
- ✗ Daily commitment required
- ✗ Slow wound healing
- ✗ Charcot risk if neuropathy
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for diabetic foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Drew Moonwalker Diabetic Shoe Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Medicare-covered diabetic footwear
Diabetic Compression Socks Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily protection + circulation
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available
Call Now: (810) 206-1402
About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a podiatrist help with neuropathy?
What does neuropathy in feet feel like?
Is foot neuropathy reversible?
Recommended Products from Dr. Tom