NORTHVALE, N.J., Oct. 4, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Orthofeet, Inc. ("Orthofeet"), a leading designer and manufacturer of biomechanically designed footwear, announced the launch of its first direct-to-consumer website www.orthofeet.com. The new website, a re-design of its existing health care provider website, offers a convenient, secure way to browse and purchase a wide variety of therapeutic shoes for men and women. The site also features educational resources about foot care, with customized content for adults with diabetes who are prone to medical foot conditions.
"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that improvements in foot care over the past decade contributed to a 65% decline in lower limb amputations for adults with diabetes," said Mark Koide, CEO, Orthofeet. "Consumers typically receive their first pair of Orthofeet shoes from a health care professional as part of a preventative foot care program, with costs covered by Medicare. Our new website offers an easy way to learn about the range of Orthofeet shoe styles available for purchase from a health care provider or online directly from Orthofeet. Because Orthofeet shoes are designed with consistent widths, lengths and depths, consumers can trust all styles will have the same comfort fit even extra width shoes."
Adults with diabetes are much more vulnerable to serious foot problems because of disease-related complications that cause a loss of sensation in their feet (neuropathy) and reduced vascular health. In fact, adults with diabetes still account for more than 60% of all non-traumatic lower limb amputations.
"It's clear that those with diabetes need to be vigilant about taking care of their feet," said Dennis Janisse, Director of Scientific Affairs, Orthofeet. "Daily foot care and self-checks, an annual foot exam and therapeutic footwear fitted by a professional will help reduce the risk of serious foot problems, including blisters, ulcers and even amputations. That said, foot health and proper shoe fit is important for all adults who value mobility and walking comfort."
The new website features several educational elements including:
- "Ask the Expert" a forum to submit questions about foot care and footwear for review and response by health professionals, including podiatrists, pedorthists and orthopedic surgeons
- Foot Condition Library a detailed resource on more than 20 medical foot conditions, including diabetic ulcers, heel spurs, neuropathy, hammer toes and plantar fasciitis
- Orthofeet Professional Locator a searchable database of foot care professionals authorized to fit and dispense Orthofeet shoes, inserts and socks for qualified adults with diabetes who are eligible for reimbursement by Medicare or private insurance
- News a snapshot of headline news in the media relating to foot health in general and for those with diabetes
Consumers can sign-up for the Orthofeet online newsletter, a bulletin with information about new products, industry news and additional consumer education tools starting this fall. There is also a dedicated portal for health care providers and Orthofeet accounts.
The new website is the first in a series of educational initiatives from Orthofeet targeted to adults with diabetes and those with specific foot health concerns.
About Orthofeet
Orthofeet develops and manufactures a premium brand of specialty footwear biomechanically designed to provide consumers with ultimate mobility, comfort and protection for an improved quality of life. The company was established in 1985 by the Bar brothers, two biomedical engineers who pioneered innovations in footwear construction unmatched in the industry. In order to maintain its high level of quality and service, Orthofeet owns its production facilities. Orthofeet partners with medical professionals and DME providers throughout the US to provide patients with a great selection of therapeutic shoes, insoles and socks. Consumers can also buy Orthofeet shoes directly online. For more information visit www.orthofeet.com
SOURCE Orthofeet
