10 Great Diabetic Insoles, Orthotics & Shoe Inserts for Neuropathy

Last updated on December 23, 2021 - Published on April 24, 2021

Diabetic insoles, also called shoe inserts or orthotics, can really help with diabetes and neuropathy foot pain. If you regularly read my blog, you know I’m quite skeptical about the so-called “diabetic” products that everyone’s trying to sell us. But regarding orthotics, there’s definitely a need here.

I’ve done my research and selected the 10 best insoles for diabetes and neuropathy in 2022. Read the reviews carefully: each orthotics has its own specificities, so be sure to choose the right one for your own feet!

1. Best for foot pain: Orthofeet Biofit insoles for diabetes & neuropathy

2. Best for blisters: Spenco Medics Diabetic+ plastazote insoles

3. Best for high arch: Apex A-Wave orthotic shoe inserts

4. Best heavy duty: Dr. Scholls pain-relief orthotics for men over 200lb

5. Best for foot fatigue: New Balance pain-relief casual insoles

6. Best for plantar fasciitis pain: WalkHero pain-relief insoles for diabetes

7. Best massaging gel: Dr. scholls gel inserts for foot pain

8. Best for sweaty feet: Infusion Poron shoes inserts for diabetes

9. Best semi-rigid: Powerstep semi-rigid arch support orthotics

10. Best price: Inocep heat-moldable diabetic insoles

1. Best Diabetic Insoles for Diabetes and Neuropathy Foot Pain

Orthofeet BioFit Soft Insoles for Diabetic Foot Pain Relief

Orthofeet BioFit Soft Diabetic Insoles

Orthofeet is the #1 diabetes and neuropathy footwear brand recommended by foot professionals. The company has designed four different styles of orthotics. The BioFit one is the most suitable for diabetes & neuropathy patients. It’s a soft cushioning that brings moderate support. It features advanced foot, knee, and back pain relief properties.

The shock-absorbing foam is excellent and relives pressure on the bottom of the foot all along the sole. A comfortable arch support provides good stability and reduces foot stress.

Unlike other companies, Orthofeet crafts its shoe inserts on a separate mold for each shoe size and width. It ensures a more precise and customized fit, which is extremely important when choosing insoles. These insoles are not unisex. There’s one model for women and one for men.

Last but not least, there’s a 60-days wear test and 100-money back guarantee on Orthofeet’s website. I find it very valuable when buying footwear products online that you can’t try out first.

10 Great Diabetic Shoes to Get in 2022!

Read article

RELATED!

2. Best Diabetic Shoes Inserts for Sensitive Foot Skin

Spenco Medics Anti-Friction Plastazote Diabetic Insoles

Spenco Medic Anti-blister Insoles for Diabetes & Neuropathy

Spenco Diabetic+ Insoles have been specially designed for people with sensitive feet, diabetes and neuropathy. They aim at providing ultimate comfort and protection for delicate feet. The central uplift is a great feature that improves foot stress-releasing function.

What’s best about these soft diabetic inserts is the top-quality materials they’re built in. Spenco has patented a SpenCore memory foam that’s known to be one of the most shock-absorbing and impact-reducing foam.

The anti-blister plastazote top cover reduces friction and protects sensitive feet against blisters and wounds. Plastazote insoles have proven to work great for people with sensitive skin, diabetes-related foot problems, and neuropathy foot pain.

Spenco shoe inserts are officially approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

The 8 Best Shoes for Neuropathy in 2021

Read article

RELATED!

3. Best Diabetic Insoles for High and Medium Foot Arches

Apex A-Wave Orthotic Inserts with 3 Levels of Supports

Apex A-Wave Orthotic Inserts for Diabetes

Apex is an iconic orthopedic footwear company that offers a great catalog of products for diabetics, including shoes, socks, and insoles. There’s only one style of shoe inserts available here, but it comes in 3 different levels of support depending on your arch type. Choosing the shape and support of your insoles according to your foot arch is essential.

If you have low arches, you should get the extra firm ones. If you have medium arches, select the firm one. And if you have high foot arches, get the flex insoles.

These are made from a patented blend of thermoplastic resins, memory foam, and supportive gels. Customers are satisfied and report efficient pain-relieving effects!

Foot Massagers & Foot Warmers for Neuropathy

Read article

RELATED!

The Best Diabetes & Neuropathy Foot Creams in 2022

Read article

RELATED!

4. Best Diabetic Shoe Inserts For Heavy Duty Support

Dr. Scholl’s Heavy Duty Pain-relief Orthotics for Diabetics

Dr. Scholls Heavy Duty Pain-relief Orthotics

Dr. Scholl’s offers a vast catalog of orthotics. Whether you need orthotics for foot pain relief, plantar fasciitis, heel pain, sore soles, or ball of foot pain, there’s a Dr. Scholl’s insole for you.

I’ve chosen the heavy-duty pain relief orthotics because they bring something different from regular diabetic insoles. They’re specially designed to alleviate foot, leg, and back pain for men over 200lb. The weight distribution system is better than in any other insoles. The shock-guard technology absorbs pain-inducing shocks in the heels.

These trim-to-fit insoles fit casual shoes. Dr. Scholl’s insoles are very reasonably priced. There is a similar extra-support insoles model for plus size women.

The 15 Best Diabetic Socks for Women

Read article

RELATED!

The 15 Best Diabetic Socks for Men

Read article

RELATED!

5. Best Insoles for Diabetic Neuropathy & Foot Fatigue

New Balance & Superfeet Casual Pain-Relief Insoles

New Balance Pain-Relief Insoles for Neuropathy

You’ve probably heard about the iconic New Balance casual sneakers before. Did you know the Boston footwear company offers a full product line for diabetics? New Balance diabetic shoes are even covered by Medicare and other health insurance providers.

New Balance cushioned insoles are actually shaped by Superfeet, one of the USA’s top orthopedic insoles company. Superfeet’s patented shape is notorious for providing a supportive and energizing shoe foundation.

Two layers of plush foam relieve pressure on your feet and the reinforced heels add protection against impacts. The fabric is moisture-wicking and odor-controling, keeping your feet in a dry and healthy environment away from fungus infections. These insoles are super soft, ideal for sensitive skins that need blister-guard shoe materials.

New Balance insoles are simply great for people with neuropathy who need extra comfort, light support, and a super-protective material. They fit into most regular-wide shoes.

Top Rated Sneakers for Diabetes & Neuropathy

Read article

RELATED!

6. Best Insoles for Diabetics' Plantar Fascitiis Pain

WalkHero Arch Support & Pain-Relief Orthotics

Walk Hero Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis & Diabetes Foot Pain

WalkHero is an iconic insole company. For this style only, you can read more than 47,000 costumers reviews on Amazon! These semi-rigid full length insoles are made with premium cushioning and shock-absorbing materials. They’re engineered to reduce foot stress and alleviate foot pain due to diabetes, plantar fasciitis, flat feet, arthritis and more.

You’ll get a maximum of comfort and cushioning. The deep heel cup helps stabilizing the foot while walking and the arch support is really good. The durable velvet cover is anti-bacterial to keep your feet healthy. A great choice for a reasonable price (&18.99).

The Best Slippers for Diabetes & Neuropathy

Read article

RELATED!

7. Best Massaging Gel Shoe Insert for Neuropathy & Diabetes

Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Advanced All-Day Relief Insoles

Dr. Scholls Gel Inserts for Neuropathy

Another great product from the iconic Dr. Scholls. The Gel massaging insoles have been designed for people with foot fatigue and foot pain. They’re a great addition to your arsenal gear against neuropathic pain.

The multi-layer gel waves act to absorb shocks and gently massage your feet during the day. It reduces foot and leg fatigue and keeps the lower limbs energized while relieving pain and discomforts.

There’s a great cushioning, as well as proper foot arch and heel support. Definitely worth the try, especially for such a great price ($12.99 only!).

8. Best Moisture-wicking Diabetic Orthotics for Sweaty Feet

Infusion Ultra-Soft Poron Insoles for Diabetes and Neuropathy

The Cloud Walker insoles by Infusion Insoles are perfect for people who need extra-soft cushioning due to diabetes or neuropathy foot pain. The material is highly shock-absorbing even for strong impacts on the foot. The heel cup is 25mm deep, which is ideal for foot stability and motion improvement.

They’re built with a combination of medical-grade Poron and Polyurethane layers. Poron is a polyurethane foam that wicks moisture away and helps keep your feet in a dry and healthy environment. It’s ideal for people who tend to have sweaty feet and fungus infections. Poron insoles are long-lasting quality orthotics.

These trim-to-fit insoles are thick and won’t fit in every regular-width shoes. They might fit in your regular sneakers or walking shoes if these are not too tight.

The 6 Best Neuropathy Socks to Boost Blood Flow & Ease Nerve Pain

Read article

RELATED!

9. Best Semi-Rigid Full-length Insoles for Diabetes & Neuropathy

PowerStep Pinnacle Full-length Arch Support Orthotics

For the last 30 years, PowerStep has been a leader in providing clinically proven foot pain relief solutions. The Pinnacle shoe inserts are a best-selling product and well-famous among diabetic and neuropathy patients.

The arch support is neutral and semi-rigid. It’s firm and flexible at the same time and suits all arch types (low, neutral, and high arches). The premium cushioning technology uses two thick layers of plush fabric, and the sole is made from EVA durable foam.

PowerStep Pinnacles inserts provide your feet with optimum support, comfort, and shock absorption, while correcting posture towards proper foot alignment. These insoles fit a wide variety of shoes with removable insoles, including most diabetic and neuropathy shoes.

Where to buy PowerStep insoles?

Surprisingly, PowerStep Pinnacle insoles are considerably cheaper on Amazon than on the company website. If you want to try them out before buying, they’re available in most orthotic footwear stores in the USA.

New CBD Creams for Neuropathy Pain

Read article

RELATED!

10. Cheapest Diabetic Insoles & Orthotics

Inocep Therapeutic Shoes Inserts for Diabetics

Inocep Therapeutic Shoe Inserts for Diabetics

Inocep Therapeutic shoes inserts for diabetics are probably the best price you can get. Of course, you can’t expect the same quality and durability as with other products, but they do bring extra foot comfort and protection to people living with diabetes.

What’s best about them is that they’re heat-moldable so you can customize them to your own foot shape. To mold your inserts at home, put them in the oven (200F) for 3 minutes. Then immediately place them into your shoes and insert your feet. Stand up straight for another 2 minutes while they shape. That’s it!

Inocep diabetic shoe inserts cost $12.99 only on Amazon and can be returned for free if you’re not satisfied.

Walking Boots, Steel Toe Shoes & Snow Boots for Diabetics

Read article

RELATED!

Diabetic Insoles and Shoe Inserts for Neuropathy: FAQ

Let’s take a dull terminology moment before we start. I’m sometimes talking about insoles, shoe inserts, orthotics, or even sock liners. There used to be a difference. Originally, orthotics were custom-made insoles meant to correct posture (which insoles did not). Since hundreds of companies have entered the game, the distinction has lost its meaning. Each one is calling its foot accessories the way it pleases it without respecting any rule.

So, inserts, orthotics, insoles, sock liners… call it whatever you like. Just be sure you’re buying something that’s good for you!

What are Diabetic Insoles?

An insole is a removable footbed that can be added or removed inside your shoes, sneakers, boots, sandals, or any types of shoes. Most factory-made shoes come with basic pointless insoles. Adding shoe inserts that foot specialists have designed can serve many purposes from improved comfort, plantar fasciitis treatment, arch support, foot pain relief to motion aid, orthopedic or postural correction, and even optimised athletic performances.

Diabetic insoles and insoles for neuropathy are shoe inserts precisely designed to alleviate foot pain caused by diabetic neuropathy and protect your feet from further problems. They generally feature extra-cushioning, anatomical arch support, pressure-relief properties, anti-friction and blister-guard materials, as well as a good shock absorption capacity.

Most diabetic shoes already come with built-in or removable diabetes-friendly inserts. But you can also wear regular shoes with an additional diabetic insole that will improve comfort and protection.

Essential Oils to Repair Damaged Nerve & Ease Neuropathy Pain

Read article

RELATED!

Why Do Diabetics Need Orthotics?

First, let’s clarify. Not all diabetics need diabetic orthotics. Diabetic orthotics are not made for diabetics, but for diabetic foot problems! Suppose you don’t have any foot problem and dominate diabetes management. In that case, chances are you don’t need anything else but good quality shoes and protective socks.

It is true that people living with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes are more prone to develop severe foot conditions than the general population. There are three main reasons why diabetics need suitable orthotics:

Alleviate Peripheral Neuropathy Foot Pain

Most foot problems people with diabetes suffer from are due to peripheral neuropathy. This serious diabetes complication affects the nerves in the lower limbs. Insoles for neuropathy have proven to alleviate the extreme foot pain caused by neuropathy symptoms (tingling, burning, sharp pains, cramps, extreme sensitivity, etc.). They also play a key role in preventing foot injuries in neuropathy patients, especially foot ulcer.

Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetes

People with diabetes are more at risk of developing plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue in the heel. The main symptom is stabbing pain in the heel area. One of the most recommended treatments is proper shoe inserts.

Extra Comfort and Preventive Protection

I’m not saying you need to wait and suffer before you get orthotics. Wearing appropriate footwear plays a significant role in the prevention of foot problems in diabetic patients. Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with neuropathy nor plantar fasciitis, providing your feet with extra comfort and protection is always a good idea. It’s part of the daily recommended foot care routine for diabetics.

Nano Socks for Neuropathy: Do they Work?

Read article

RELATED!

Do Shoe Inserts for Neuropathy Really Work?

Yes. If you regularly read my blog, you know I am often skeptical about the so-called “diabetic” products everyone’s trying to sell us. Not this time.

Diabetic footwear for people with peripheral neuropathy does make a huge difference. Not only can it alleviate foot pain, but it also prevents further problems from showing up.

Neuropathy insoles are designed to soothe your feet, support them, improve motion, provide extra cushioning, absorb shocks and impacts, and prevent skin frictions that could lead to blisters and infections.

Diabetic Insole Guide: How to Find the Best Inserts for Your Feet?

Before choosing insoles for diabetes or diabetic neuropathy, there are a few features you should really pay attention to. Wearing orthotics that do not suit your own foot type will do you more harm than good.

Here’s a little help to guide you through the most essential features to look for in shoe inserts. You should also ask for your doctor’s or podiatrist’s advice first.

Insole Size Chart & Fit-to-Trim Inserts

Insole sizes usually refer to a shoe size range. For example, “Women’s 5-7”. Most factory-made insoles are meant to be trimmed off. It allows you to find the perfect fit. If you’re in between sizes, you’re supposed to buy the next size up and trim unneeded length.

Full-Length or 3/4 Shoe Inserts?

Full-Length orthotics are the most commonly used by diabetes and neuropathy patients. They extend through the entire length of the foot and are meant to replace the existing shoe insert.

3/4 length insoles are shorter. They extend from the ball of the foot (behind the toes) to the heel. They’re meant to be placed on top of your existing shoe inserts. People with hammertoes or bunions usually prefer 3/4 orthotics. If your shoes are a bit tight (narrow-toed shoes), they’re also more suitable.

High-volume Vs. Low-volume Insoles

The insole volume is the amount of space it takes inside your shoes. Logically, high-volume footbeds will take more room and provide more cushioning than low-volume ones.

People with diabetes or neuropathy must wear non-binding footwear. Shoes that are too tight constrict your legs and impede proper blood flow.

Choosing the right diabetic orthotics volume really depends on the shoes you’re going to place them in. If you have extra-wide shoes for diabetics, consider high-volume insoles for more cushioning. But if you’re wearing regular-width shoes, you might be better with a bit less cushioning and more room. In that case, choose medium or low-volume inserts.

The Best Diabetes Bags, Backpacks, Purses & Fanny Packs in 2022

Read article

RELATED!

What's Your Foot Arch Type?

There are three foot arch types, and you should be one of them. You’re either neutral arch, low arch, or high arch. A picture is worth a thousand words:

To determine your own arch type, you can also do the water test or wet test. It’s essential to know your foot arch type as most insoles are designed for one arch type only. Wearing insoles made to support a high arch if you have a low arch can be painful and do you more harm than good.

Insole Footbed: Rigid vs. Cushioning Arch Support?

Like all orthotics, orthotics for diabetics come with four different footbed options. The rigid footbed is the one providing the strongest arch support. It can be difficult to wear, and it’s advisable to seek your podiatrist’s advice before using rigid arch support. The semi-rigid footbed also provides good arch support but it’s more flexible. It’s easier to wear and ideal for most people.

Then, there are the cushioned arch support and the flat cushion (no arch support). They are totally fine for diabetics not experiencing plantar fasciitis nor foot arch pain. If you suffer arch pain, you should generally choose rigid or semi-rigid arch support. Cushioned or flat support won’t do anything for you.

Foam Inserts Vs. Gel Inserts

Most diabetic insoles are made from foam or gel. Foam is better for cushioning and pressure relief. Gel works great for shock absorption. Memory foam insoles shape to your own feet, which is quite pleasant. Gel insoles act more like a foot massage, which is also nice. A significant advantage of gel insoles is that they generally are anti-bacterial and machine washable.

Orthotics for Diabetes and Neuropathy: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wash your shoe inserts?

Yes, and you should. The bad smell of shoes often comes from the insoles themselves. Regularly washing your orthotics helps keep your feet in a healthy environment and prevent bacteria and fungal growth.

Only a few insoles are machine washable, though. You can wash gel insoles in the machine at cold temperatures. For foam insoles, it’s better to hand wash them. There are several methods to cleanse your insoles without deteriorating them. You can use warm water and soap, vinegar, or baking soda.

How long do orthotics last?

Custom orthotics can last up to three years if you take good care of them. Most ready-made shoe inserts don’t last as much, and you usually have to change them every 6 months or so. There are clear signs that indicate it’s time you get new insoles: deformation, damage, bad odor, and especially if they’re flatter than they used to be.

Can you put insoles on top of insoles?

It sounds like a stupid question, but it’s not! You should remove your shoe insoles before placing custom-made orthotics. For full-length insoles, it’s best to remove your original insole too, but it’s not obligatory. If you feel more comfortable and your feet have enough space, you can keep the original insole under the new one. On the contrary, 3/4 length shoe inserts are supposed to be placed on top of your shoe insoles.

Does Medicare cover diabetic shoes and inserts?

Medicare does cover orthotic shoes and inserts for people with type 1 to type 2 diabetes who qualify under Medicare Part B. The shoe inserts must be prescribed by a podiatrist, an orthotist, a prosthetist, a pedorthist, or any other qualified doctor.

Some private medical insurances in the US also cover part of the cost of therapeutic footwear for diabetics. Check with your insurance provider.

Are custom-made insoles worth it for diabetes and neuropathy?

Custom-made orthotics can cost anywhere between $250 and $1500 and are usually not covered by medical insurances. The process takes a long time and several appointments with specialists who thoroughly examine and cast your feet. If you have serious foot conditions such as advanced neuropathy, foot ulcer, foot deformation, chronic pain or tendinitis, and you can afford the price, custom orthotics do make the difference.

For most people though, including diabetes and neuropathy patients, ready-made insoles are enough.

What are acupressure insoles?

Acupressure insoles are magnetic therapy shoe inserts covered with plenty of tiny magnetic nodules. Their action is based on reflexology, an alternative medical practice relying on the idea that every area of your feet is linked to a part of your body. They provide a massaging effect and claim to be an effective foot pain relief solution.

What are magnetic shoe inserts' benefits for neuropathy?

As I said above, magnetic acupressure shoe inserts work on the principles of reflexology. The tiny magnets gently apply pressure on the acupoints of your feet. If you believe in reflexology, using magnetic insoles is definitely something your should try.

Reflexology insoles claim to alleviate foot pain and boost blood circulation. Both effects are very beneficial to people with diabetic neuropathy. If you don’t believe in the idea behind acupressure insoles, the worst case scenario is that you’ll have a good foot massage!

I’ve done some research and found that the Carespot Gel Acupressure Foot Therapy Inserts have the best customers reviews of all magnetic shoe insoles.