Background

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic health condition that carries a significant risk of foot ulcers, with estimates suggesting that 19-34% of individuals with DM will develop ulcers during their lifetime. Despite therapeutic footwear being recommended by the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot for those at moderate to high risk of ulceration, low adherence to such footwear has been reported. The study aimed to explore factors involved in shoe decision-making by individuals with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 and 2.

Methodology

A qualitative inductive study design using semi structured interviews by phone and by a purposive convenience sampling was made in Sweden. Subjects were interviewed by phone, and an open-ended approach was used to elicit answers from the participants.  Transcribed data was analysed by a content analysis trough the computer software Spreadsheet Software Excel.

Results

A total of 14 subjects were interviewed, having the mean age of 73 years. Three themes rose: 1) The prioritized health needs and knowledge guide the footwear choice, 2) External factors influence the footwears’ choice, and 3) Lack of agency limits the footwear choice.

Conclusion

The study reveals that individuals with diabetes consider various factors when choosing footwear, including foot health, environmental factors, and their perceived lack autonomy and agency of when choosing footwear. Future research and footwear manufacturers should take these factors into account to design appropriate footwear for this population improve adherence to footwear and personal wellbeing.