National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the NPTE with our exam quiz. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions to boost your confidence. Learn with detailed explanations and hints for each question. Get ready for success!

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What feature is most crucial when selecting footwear for a diabetic patient?

  1. Leather soles and heels

  2. Selection of a shoe without laces

  3. Snug fit around the heel

  4. Non-leather material uppers

The correct answer is: Snug fit around the heel

When selecting footwear for a diabetic patient, ensuring a snug fit around the heel is crucial for several reasons. Proper heel fit helps to prevent excessive movement of the foot within the shoe, which can lead to friction and blisters. Diabetic patients often have decreased sensation in their feet due to neuropathy, making them less aware of developing sores or injuries. A snug fit around the heel minimizes these risks by providing stability and support, thereby reducing the likelihood of skin breakdown and other complications. Furthermore, ensuring that the heel fits snugly can also help in distributing pressure more evenly across the foot. This is important for diabetic patients, as they can be prone to conditions like Charcot foot or ulcerations, which are exacerbated by improperly fitting shoes. Thus, the correct choice prioritizes safety and overall foot health for individuals with diabetes, reflecting a critical aspect of their footwear selection.