Diabetic Socks – What Do They Do and What Are the Best Socks for Diabetics

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Diabetic socks are designed for people with diabetes—a condition that affects an estimated 34.2 million people in the United States.

What does diabetes do to your feet?

Individuals with diabetes are particularly susceptible to foot problems, primarily due to diabetes-induced neuropathy, which is a type of nerve damage that can cause pain, tingling sensations, and numbness in the legs, particularly in the feet. This can make it challenging for diabetics to recognize when they have sustained injuries.

Additionally, diabetes can negatively impact the blood vessels in the feet, resulting in slower healing times. Furthermore, the feet may not receive adequate oxygenation and nutrient supply due to poor circulation.

As a result, a foot with diabetes is often referred to as an “at-risk foot” since it is more vulnerable to infection, and in severe cases, prolonged infections can lead to amputation. Therefore, it is critical for individuals with diabetes to practice proper foot care, such as inspecting their feet regularly and seeking medical attention for even minor injuries to avoid potentially serious complications.

Benefits of diabetic socks

There are numerous health benefits to using diabetic socks. Anyone with diabetes can benefit from them, even those who have their glucose levels under control.

Diabetic socks are effective in that possess special features aimed at reducing pressure and preventing damage. In addition to keeping your feet healthy, they are designed to be comfortable against the skin and give some extra support.

It is important to note that diabetic socks are not the same as compression socks. The latter is usually worn by people with conditions that would benefit from added pressure in the lower legs.

What to consider when buying diabetic socks

If possible, consult a healthcare provider, such as a podiatrist, on how to best take care of your feet. There are a variety of different diabetic socks available on the market, and every pair is not made equal. Below are some general features and new technologies to consider as you find the kind of sock that fits your specific needs.

• Silver-infused material—Fabrics infused with silver prevent microbe growth and help to reduce unpleasant odors. By keeping your feet germ-free, infections are less likely to develop.
• Non-binding cuff—To avoid any circulation restriction, choose a sock that has a stretchy cuff. We recommend staying away from cuffs with an elastic at the top. Maintaining adequate blood flow to the feet is crucial to keeping them healthy.
• Seamless interior—Many diabetic socks are constructed such that there are no seams in contact with the foot. This is meant to lower irritation and reduce the chances of bunions.
• Padding along the bottom—This feature is especially useful for those who spend a large part of the day on their feet. A sock with a thicker material along the bottom of the foot can provide added comfort and protection.
• Pick the right size—Diabetic socks should never be tight and constricting. At the same time, socks that are too loose will bunch up. A pair of diabetic socks with the right fit is worth the effort.

Contact us

If you have diabetes-related questions or would like to learn more about socks for diabetes, foot pain, and foot health, our team is here to help. You can reach out to us at docpods.com/au, we would love to hear from you!