Diabetic Shoes & Medicare Coverage 2026 | Podiatrist

Diabetic Shoes and Medicare Coverage 2026: What Your Podiatrist Wants You to Know

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS

Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon · 3,000+ surgeries · @MichiganFootDoctors (950K+ subscribers)

Last reviewed May 11, 2026 · (810) 206-1402

In This Guide

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)

How Medicare covers diabetic shoes

What Is the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program?

The Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program (formally known as the Therapeutic Shoe Bill, passed in 1993) is a Medicare Part B benefit that covers custom-molded or depth shoes, custom inserts, and shoe modifications for people with diabetes who are at risk for foot complications. The program recognizes that proper footwear is a medical necessity — not a luxury — for diabetic patients with foot conditions that place them at risk for skin breakdown and ulceration.

Medicare Part B pays 80% of the approved amount for therapeutic shoes and inserts. If you have a Medicare supplement (Medigap) policy, it typically covers the remaining 20% coinsurance. Patients with both Medicare and Medicaid (dual-eligible) usually pay nothing out of pocket. For patients with Medicare alone and no supplement, the typical copay ranges from $25–$50 for shoes and $15–$30 for inserts.

Who Qualifies?

To qualify for the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program, you must meet all three of the following criteria:

1. Diabetes diagnosis — Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes documented in your medical record, managed by a physician (MD or DO), physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.
2. Medicare Part B enrollment — You must have active Medicare Part B coverage. Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) also cover therapeutic shoes, though the process may differ slightly by plan.
3. At least one qualifying foot condition — Your treating physician must certify that you have one or more of the specific foot conditions listed in the qualifying conditions section below.

Qualifying Foot Conditions

Medicare requires that your treating physician (the doctor managing your diabetes, not your podiatrist) certify that you have at least one of the following foot conditions:

• Peripheral neuropathy with evidence of callus formation — Loss of protective sensation combined with pressure-related calluses that indicate ulcer risk
• History of pre-ulcerative calluses — Calluses with hemorrhage (bleeding) beneath them, indicating tissue damage from excessive pressure
• History of previous foot ulceration — Any prior diabetic foot ulcer, regardless of whether it healed
• Foot deformity — Hammertoes, bunions, Charcot foot, prominent metatarsal heads, or any structural abnormality that concentrates pressure
• Previous amputation of the foot or part of the foot — Partial foot amputation changes weight-bearing mechanics and requires specialized footwear accommodation
• Poor circulation — Peripheral arterial disease documented by clinical examination, ankle-brachial index, or vascular studies

What Is Covered?

Each calendar year, Medicare covers the following therapeutic shoe benefit:

Option A (most common): One pair of depth shoes (extra-depth construction that accommodates custom inserts and foot deformities) PLUS three pairs of custom-molded inserts. The inserts are replaced every 4 months to maintain proper pressure redistribution as they wear.

Option B: One pair of custom-molded shoes (individually manufactured from a cast or model of the patient’s foot) PLUS two pairs of custom inserts. Custom-molded shoes are reserved for patients whose foot deformity is too severe for standard depth shoes (typically Charcot foot, major amputation, or severe combined deformities).

Shoe modifications are also covered when needed, including rocker soles, metatarsal bars, wedges, and other modifications that alter the shoe’s biomechanical properties to reduce pressure at specific sites.

The Step-by-Step Process

Getting your Medicare diabetic shoes requires coordination between your treating physician and your podiatrist. Here is the complete process from start to finish:

1. Physician certification — Your treating physician (the doctor managing your diabetes) completes a Statement of Certifying Physician form documenting your diabetes diagnosis and qualifying foot condition. This must be signed within 6 months prior to delivery of the shoes.
2. Podiatrist prescription — Your podiatrist performs a comprehensive foot evaluation, determines the appropriate shoe type and insert specifications, and writes the prescription. The podiatrist cannot be the same physician who certified you (with limited exceptions).
3. Fitting appointment — You visit the podiatrist or certified pedorthist for measurements, foam impressions (for custom inserts), and shoe selection. Most offices have therapeutic shoe samples to try on for style and fit preference.
4. Fabrication — Custom inserts are fabricated from your foam impressions, typically taking 1–2 weeks. Shoes may be available from stock or ordered, usually arriving within 1–3 weeks.
5. Delivery and final fitting — You return to verify the fit of both shoes and inserts. The provider checks that the shoes accommodate your foot deformities, the inserts distribute pressure appropriately, and you can put them on and take them off independently.
6. Documentation and billing — The provider submits claims to Medicare with all required documentation. You pay your 20% coinsurance (or nothing if you have a supplement that covers it).

Physician Certification Requirements

The physician certification is the most common point of failure in the therapeutic shoe process — many qualifying patients miss out because their primary care physician is unfamiliar with the form or the program. Here is what the certifying physician needs to know:

• The certifying physician must be the doctor managing the patient’s diabetes (typically their primary care physician or endocrinologist)
• The certification form (CMS-DME Form) documents the diabetes diagnosis and at least one qualifying foot condition
• The certifying physician must have examined the patient within the 6 months prior to shoe delivery
• The certification must be completed BEFORE the shoes are dispensed — retroactive certification is not accepted
• The certifying physician and the prescribing podiatrist must generally be different providers (anti-referral rules apply)

At Balance Foot & Ankle, we streamline this process by faxing the certification form directly to your physician’s office with clear instructions. Most certifications are completed within 1–2 business days.

The Fitting Appointment

The fitting appointment is where the science of biomechanical pressure redistribution meets the practical reality of finding shoes you will actually wear every day. During this visit, your podiatrist or certified pedorthist will:

• Measure both feet while standing (weight-bearing) for length, width, and depth
• Evaluate foot deformities that require specific shoe features (extra depth, wide toe box, rocker sole)
• Take foam impressions of both feet for custom insert fabrication — you stand in specialized foam boxes that capture the exact contour of your plantar surface
• Discuss shoe style preferences — therapeutic shoes now come in athletic, casual, dress, and work boot styles that look like regular shoes
• Assess gait pattern to determine whether shoe modifications (rocker sole, metatarsal bar) would benefit your walking mechanics

Custom Inserts vs. Stock Insoles

The custom inserts covered by Medicare are fabricated from your individual foot impressions and specifically designed to redistribute pressure away from your high-risk areas. They differ significantly from over-the-counter insoles:

• Custom contour — Molded to your exact foot shape, including arch height, metatarsal head positions, and any deformity accommodation
• Multi-density construction — Softer materials beneath high-pressure zones (metatarsal heads, heel) and firmer materials in supportive zones (arch, midfoot)
• Accommodative features — Cutouts or depressions beneath bony prominences, prior ulcer sites, or callus-prone areas to eliminate focal pressure
• Three pairs per year — Medicare provides three sets because the cushioning materials compress over time (approximately 4 months) and lose their pressure-redistributing properties

Between custom insert replacements, or for shoes where custom inserts are not practical (casual shoes, around-the-house footwear), a high-quality over-the-counter insole provides better support than no insole at all.

How much does the Medicare therapeutic shoe program cost me out of pocket?

Under Original Medicare Part B, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your annual Part B deductible. For most patients, this means approximately $0–50 out of pocket for one pair of therapeutic shoes and three pairs of custom inserts per calendar year. Many Medicare Advantage plans cover the full cost with no copay. Your DME supplier can verify your specific plan’s coverage before your fitting appointment.

Can I choose any shoes I want through the Medicare program?

No — shoes must meet specific therapeutic criteria established by Medicare. They must be extra-depth construction (at least 5/16 inch deeper than standard shoes), have a wide toe box, seamless interior lining, firm heel counter, and removable insole to accommodate custom inserts. Your certified pedorthist or podiatrist will present options that meet all requirements while still offering choices in style, color, and closure type. Athletic, dress, and casual styles are available from approved therapeutic shoe manufacturers.

Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor?

Yes — Medicare requires a certification statement from the physician managing your diabetes. This is typically your primary care doctor, endocrinologist, or internal medicine specialist. The certifying physician must document your diabetes diagnosis and confirm you have at least one qualifying condition (peripheral neuropathy with callus formation, history of pre-ulcerative callus, history of previous ulceration, foot deformity, previous amputation, or poor circulation). Your podiatrist cannot be both the certifying physician and the fitting provider under Medicare rules.

What if I have Medicare Advantage instead of Original Medicare?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans must cover at least the same benefits as Original Medicare, including the Therapeutic Shoe Program. However, coverage details vary by plan — some Medicare Advantage plans offer enhanced benefits with lower copays or additional pairs. Your plan may require you to use specific DME suppliers within their network. Contact your Medicare Advantage plan directly or ask our office to verify your specific benefits before scheduling a fitting. We work with most major Medicare Advantage plans in Michigan.

Our Top Diabetic Shoe Picks

🏆 #1 Best A5500 Therapeutic ShoeMedicare A5500

Dr. Comfort William-X

Dr. Comfort William-X Double Depth Diabetic Shoes for Men-Therapeutic Shoe-Mens Walking Shoes with Gel Inserts

• 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

Buy on Amazon

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 smooth 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

Orthofeet Men’s Sprint Walking Shoe, Athletic

• 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.

Buy on Amazon

Why We Recommend It: For patients who want a more athletic-looking diabetic shoe, the Orthofeet Sprint provides a smooth 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 Township, 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 Township, 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

More Podiatrist-Recommended Diabetic Essentials

Diabetic-Approved Walking Shoe

Orthofeet Sprint — smooth, extra-depth, designed for neuropathic feet.

Seamless Diabetic Sock

View on Amazon →

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 Township

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is diabetic foot care so important?

Diabetes causes two problems that make foot wounds dangerous: peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage reducing sensation) and peripheral arterial disease (reduced blood flow impairing healing). A small blister or cut that a non-diabetic person would notice and treat can go undetected in a diabetic patient for days, become infected, and progress to osteomyelitis. Diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations. A consistent foot care routine and regular podiatry visits prevent most amputations.

How often should diabetic patients see a podiatrist?

Patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy should see a podiatrist every 2–3 months for routine nail care and foot inspection. Patients with active foot complications (ulcers, Charcot foot, severe PAD) need more frequent visits — often every 2–4 weeks until stable. Even well-controlled diabetics without neuropathy benefit from annual foot exams. Many amputations we see in consultation could have been prevented with earlier, consistent podiatric care.

What is diabetic peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage from chronically elevated blood sugar, causing numbness, tingling, burning, or loss of sensation — typically starting in the toes and progressing upward in a ‘stocking’ distribution. The dangerous aspect isn’t the pain — it’s the absence of pain. Patients with severe neuropathy don’t feel blisters, cuts, pressure sores, or early infections. A wound can reach bone before it’s noticed. Neuropathy screening with a 10-gram monofilament is part of every diabetic foot exam.

What are the warning signs of a diabetic foot problem?

Seek same-day evaluation for: any open wound or blister that isn’t healing within 1–2 weeks, redness, warmth, or swelling in any part of the foot (possible Charcot fracture or infection), a new blister or callus, any red streaking or warmth spreading up the leg (cellulitis), foot or ankle pain in a diabetic patient with neuropathy (could be Charcot without pain). Don’t wait to see if it improves — diabetic foot infections are medical emergencies.

What is the best foot cream for diabetic feet?

The goal of diabetic foot cream is restoring the skin’s moisture barrier to prevent fissuring and cracking — the entry points for infection. Look for urea-based creams (10–25% urea) or lactic acid formulations that actually penetrate thickened skin rather than sitting on the surface. AmLactin 12%, Eucerin Diabetics’ Dry Skin Relief, and Gold Bond Diabetics’ Dry Skin Relief are clinical-grade options. Avoid cream between the toes — moisture retention between toes promotes maceration and fungal infection.

Can diabetic patients get foot massages?

Light massage is generally safe for diabetic patients without active wounds, severe edema, or PAD. However, deep tissue massage or vigorous rubbing should be avoided — with neuropathy, patients can’t feel if tissue is being damaged. Foot massagers with rollers or intense vibration should be avoided entirely. If you enjoy foot massage, use gentle, light strokes with a diabetic-appropriate foot cream. Let your podiatrist know if you’re incorporating massage into your routine — we can advise based on your circulation status.

What type of socks should diabetic patients wear?

Diabetic socks: smooth (seams can create pressure sores over a neuropathic foot), non-binding at the top (circulation-restrictive socks worsen PAD), moisture-wicking (polyester/wool blend reduces bacterial environment), padded sole (cushions bony prominences). Avoid cotton socks for active patients — cotton retains moisture. Never wear socks with elastic bands that leave marks on the leg. Brands specifically designed for diabetic feet: Thorlos, Wigwam, and most major medical supply brands.

Should diabetic patients cut their own toenails?

It depends on neuropathy severity and vision. Patients with mild neuropathy and good vision can safely trim nails straight across without cutting the corners. Patients with moderate-to-severe neuropathy, poor vision, or thick nails should not self-trim — the risk of cutting the surrounding skin (which they may not feel) is too high. This is exactly what podiatry nail care visits are for. Medicare and most insurance plans cover routine foot care for diabetic patients with documented neuropathy.

What is Charcot foot and how serious is it?

Charcot neuroarthropathy is a serious diabetic complication where neuropathy allows repeated micro-fractures to occur without pain, leading to progressive bone and joint destruction and foot deformity. The classic presentation: a warm, swollen, red foot in a diabetic patient — often mistaken for cellulitis. Early Charcot (caught within weeks of onset) can be managed with a total contact cast to prevent further collapse. Late Charcot with significant arch destruction often requires reconstructive surgery. Missing the diagnosis is catastrophic — a single patient with missed Charcot can progress to a rocker-bottom deformity requiring amputation.

Does insurance cover diabetic foot care?

Medicare Part B covers routine foot care (nail trimming, callus debridement) for diabetic patients with documented peripheral neuropathy — one visit every 2 months. Most PPO and HMO plans follow similar coverage rules. Diabetic shoes and insoles are covered under Medicare’s Therapeutic Shoe Bill (one pair of shoes plus three pairs of custom insoles per year). Call us at (810) 206-1402 and we’ll verify your specific coverage before your first appointment.

Related Guides

Diabetic Foot Care → | Neuropathy Treatment → | Diabetic Shoes Michigan → | Custom Orthotics →

Medical References & Sources

• American Diabetes Association — Foot Complications
• PubMed Research — Diabetic Foot Care
• American Podiatric Medical Association — Diabetic Foot

In-Office Diabetic Foot Care at Balance Foot & Ankle

At our Howell and Bloomfield Township 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 used — 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.

Plantar Fasciitis 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), smooth 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.

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.

Related Conditions

Clinical References

1. Bus SA, et al. “Effectiveness of therapeutic footwear for the diabetic foot.” Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews. 2008;24(S1):S162-S180.
2. American Diabetes Association. “Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes — 2024.” Diabetes Care. 2024;47(Supplement 1):S231-S243.
3. Lavery LA, et al. “Preventing diabetic foot ulcer recurrence in high-risk patients.” Diabetes Care. 2007;30(1):14-20.

Book an appointment with a podiatrist

The therapeutic footwear benefit runs through a podiatrist who has examined your feet, so an exam is the practical first step. It also catches the changes that make protective footwear necessary in the first place. Balance Foot & Ankle sees patients at two offices — Howell in Livingston County, and Bloomfield Township in Oakland County.

Call (810) 206-1402 or use the form below and our team will find you an appointment time.

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Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) 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 made him one of the most-followed foot & ankle educators on YouTube.