Dr. Comfort shoes are all made on very similar lasts (if not the same) although design of a particular shoe's upper can affect the way it fits.  Keep in mind that fitting the right size for your patient does not only involve a quick Brannock measurement of length.  Be sure to measure heel-to-ball, heel-to-toe, AND width.  Refer to the Proper Shoe Fitting webpage for instructions on how to take accurate measurements. 

Also, in conjunction with Brannock measurements, be sure to note the gait of the patient – for example, their degree of overpronation/oversupination and whether or not they will be wearing orthotics with their footwear.  We suggest taking a static impression of your patient’s feet to note where the pressure points lie, and to determine foot flat stance.  Take into consideration any foot deformities that may affect the fit of the shoe style they select.  

Remember – if you proceed with a full analysis of your patients’ feet before you order their shoes, you will decrease your exchange rate and increase your patient satisfaction rate. 

Please remember that normally you never want to fit a highly symptomatic patient, and more particularly a diabetic patient, shorter or narrower than measured.  However, by following the above instructions, you will be achieving a fit comparable to other shoes in our line.  It is very important to remember that when you are fitting patients that have narrow heels, it will be easier to accommodate their needs with a lace shoe.  Refer to the Lacing Guide for tips on different lacing techniques to achieve the best fit for your patient. Feel free to ask your territory’s account manger for a copy of the Lacing Guide!

Many common shoe fitting problems can be solved by using alternate lacing techniques.  Utilizing them in your office on the first visit will alleviate the need for further unnecessary follow-up visits.  This is the fastest and least expensive way to accommodate your patient. 

NEVER sell the wrong size shoes.  Remember – YOU KNOW BETTER!!  Even if your patient insists, for example, that she always wears a size 7M but you measure her as a size 8W, go with YOUR expertise!  That patient has visited you because she has foot problems.  She NEEDS your expert advice whether she’s willing to admit it or not! 

Advise your patients to wear moisture-wicking socks.  Cotton blend socks cause blistering, even when the shoe is the right size.  Cotton, as you know, absorbs moisture.  Moisture plus friction results in a blister.  Have your patients wear moisture-wicking socks, and blister problems are solved!   Dr. Comfort is pleased to provide bamboo-charcoal fibre socks that truly absorb moisture and protect the sensitive foot.

When dealing with any of our Lycra shoes (Annie, Brian, or Merry Jane Lycra), we encourage you to apply a fabric protector, such as Scotchguard, before wearing the shoes to prevent dirt buildup and ease their cleaning.  Patients may use Woolite and warm water with a cloth, or baby wipes to clean the Lycra shoes.  Please do not immerse the shoes, or put them through an automatic washer. 

Please do not use any oil-based polishes on your shoes.  We suggest using any cream-based leather cleaner to remove any scuff marks or dirt from your leather shoes. 

The most common problem in shoe fitting continues to be heel slippage.  This stems from shoes that are sized too short and too wide.  If a patient says a shoe fits well all around except for the heel slipping, try fitting them with a shoe one-half size longer and/or one width narrower.  E.G.  From 9.5W to 10M.

As a reminder, please do not use a microwave to heat the Elite Dr. Comfort inserts (included with each pair of shoes – pink Plastazote/EVA).  We have been getting calls from a few offices who use alternative methods to the heat gun or a regular convection oven, and are concerned with the results.  Keep in mind the combination of materials used for these inserts requires a heat source of approximately 230 degrees – best achieved with a heat gun or a convection oven.  If you need guidance or clarification, please contact us at 1-888-655-4499. 

When do you need to order new shoes for your patients?  When the soles show significant wear, the lateral heel counter is well worn and not supporting the side of the shoe, or your patient just wants another pair!!