Diabetic socks are essential for the management of symptoms associated with nerve damage, a condition known as ‘diabetic neuropathy’. Upon the physician’s recommendations, diabetics as well as those suffering from foot issues use diabetic socks on a daily basis for comfort and ease. These also increase blood circulation in the legs thus relieving swelling. Despite being a long-lasting product, it is essential to timely replace diabetic socks with newer ones.
But how often should this be done? What are the signs that you need to replace diabetic socks? Let’s take a look:
When Do I Need to Replace Diabetic Socks?
If you wear diabetic socks on a daily basis, there might be a need to replace them soon. However, if you only use them on certain occasions i.e. while traveling or on the days when tingling in the feet troubles you, your pair will last longer. Generally, it is recommended that you replace them after every 3 to 6 months.
What are the Signs to Replace Diabetic Socks?
It is advised to examine your foot clothing often so that you get an idea regarding the time when you need to replace diabetic socks. Usually, the right time is around the corner if you find the following in your diabetic socks:
● Presence of Holes or Rips
With extensive use, your diabetic socks are likely to develop rips as well as holes. A pair of socks with such damage cannot provide complete padding and protection to your feet. As a result, the chances of getting foot injuries are likely to increase. Therefore, one must replace diabetic socks at this stage with a new pair to maintain proper foot health.
● Thinning of Cushioning and Padding
Diabetics often get minor cuts, blisters, bruises, injuries, and scratches while walking. These can come either from their own shoes or from nearby objects. If neglected, these foot problems can lead to severe foot infections, ulcers, and even amputation. Therefore, the use of diabetic socks is necessitated.
Diabetic socks are known for their extra padding and thick cushioning, especially in the areas covering the digits. This way, the feet get maximum coverage, and damage from the shoes can be easily avoided. Similarly, the chances of getting badly hurt from an object while walking are also decreased.
However, with extensive use, diabetic socks often lose their cushioning. Frequently worn socks get subjected to pressure which leads to pressing and thinning of the padding. Therefore, one should replace diabetic socks if this thinning is experienced.
● Frayed Edges of the Diabetic Socks
Diabetic socks are constructed with non-binding, strong yet soft yarns. The moisture-wicking materials used for this purpose include:
● Cotton
● Wool
● Bamboo
● Synthetic acrylic fiber blend
Sometimes, the material is also enriched with the incorporation of silver or copper to achieve antimicrobial effects.
However, with long-term use, the fabric of the diabetic socks becomes frayed from the edges. Consequently, the protection provided to the feet is reduced and the chances of getting a foot injury due to rubbing are increased. If you are experiencing fraying of the product, take it as a sign that you need to immediately replace diabetic socks.
● Stretching Out of the Construction Material
The diabetic socks have a seamless design that fits the feet and legs properly. If a diabetic sock has a suitable fit according to your size, it will neither be too tight nor too loose. This suitable fit also increases blood flow to the feet thus healing swelling.
When a diabetic sock is worn again and again, its grip on the skin is loosened. As a result, the hugging effect felt by wearing diabetic socks is lost. This means that your pair of socks has lost its grip and has become stretched out.
If you still choose to wear the same pair, chances are that the upper edge of the socks will keep falling causing discomfort and irritation. Therefore, it is good to go for buying new diabetic socks as the replacement is now necessary.
Tips to Timely Replace Diabetic Socks
With our busy lifestyles, it becomes difficult to remember when was the last time you got to replace diabetic socks. Here are some of the tips which might help you to track your replacement date:
● Frequent Visual Inspection
If you like to don diabetic socks on a daily basis, it is important to keep looking for the signs of wear and tear. If the above-mentioned signs are visible, replace diabetic socks as soon as possible. Buying these socks from trusted vendors like Health Supply 770 ensures good quality with affordability.
● Mark a Date on Your Pairs
Whenever you get to buy new diabetic socks, it is a good idea to put your purchase date either on the seamless top or the tag using a permanent marker. This way, keeping track of the right month in which you need to replace diabetic socks becomes easy.
● Taking care of Diabetic Socks
No matter how many pairs you have, it is always easy and budget-friendly to take care of your diabetic socks instead of frequently replacing them. For this purpose, it is important to maintain a cleaning habit for your diabetic socks so that they remain up to the mark and provide good diabetic foot care. In this regard, the following steps should be kept in mind:
● Always wash your diabetic socks using a mesh bag. Do not simply toss them into the washing machine.
● It is advised to employ mild laundry soaps and detergents for washing diabetic socks. The use of chlorine bleach and other harsh substances should be avoided.
● The diabetic socks should be washed with light hands. Harsh rubbing should be avoided as it can either fray the fabric immediately or affect the cushioning.
● Once the washing is done, make sure to remove all the washing chemicals from the diabetic socks. Keep them under the running water for a few seconds and gently squeeze them to make them chemical-free.
● Drying diabetic socks in a dryer might affect their effectiveness. Therefore, it is preferable to either air dry them on a clothesline or to put them in a dryer set at low heat.
Diabetic Socks: Top Brands, Products, and Specifications
In the US market, diabetic socks come in different sizes, lengths, compression fits, and colors. This gives the buyers an opportunity to replace diabetic socks with a pair of their choice. The following are some of the top brands of diabetic socks in the US that deliver quality at the best prices:
Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Diabetes & Circulator Socks-4 & 6 Pair Packs-Non-Binding Moisture Management
Dr. Scholl’s diabetic wear is one of the best diabetic socks available in the US. The product has been accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) due to its quality. It is made up of 96% polyester, 2% spandex, and 25 other soft and comfortable fibers.
The product’s odor-fighting technology renders it effective in providing a fresh and clean appearance to the user. These diabetic socks hug the leg perfectly as they are neither too fitted nor too loose. Moreover, moisture is also prevented between the digits as Dr. Scholl’s diabetic socks are breathable and comfy. The product can also be washed in a machine.
Active-Fit Cushioned Diabetic Crew Socks 3 Pack | Maximize Comfort and Circulation | Seamless Toe
Active-Fit cushioned diabetic crew socks have been designed to have a seamless toe along with a properly padded structure. The product fits perfectly and allows comfort throughout the day. The construction material is a mix of 86% polyester, 12% nylon, and 2% spandex. Its big stretch fabric allows comfort by not being too tight on the skin. The product can be washed by hand as well as in a washing machine.
Diabetic Socks Available at Health Supply 770
Health Supply 770 also offers a wide variety of diabetic socks which are from different brands and price ranges. Some of these products have been detailed below with their prices as well as the purchase links:
SIMCANNS Simcan Comfort Diabetic Socks Small Navy, Pack Of 2
Price: $11.88
Product Details
SIMCANNS Simcan Comfort diabetic socks come in a pack of two. These are effective in enhancing the blood circulation in the feet and, therefore, are preferred by those who have swollen legs. Apart from diabetics, the SIMCANNS diabetic socks are also good for those who suffer from leg fatigue due to poor circulation. Moreover, the product is also ideal for promoting recovery after exercise.
The SIMCANNS Comfort diabetic socks are excellent for everyday wear as they keep your feet warm and comfortable. These diabetic socks are also often recommended by healthcare professionals because of their quality as well as cost-effectiveness. So if you want to replace diabetic socks, this is the right product for you.
SensiFoot Knee-High Mild Compression Diabetic Socks Large, Black
Price: $32.88
Product Details
SensiFoot knee-high compression socks are perfect for use by both men and women as the product covers different size ranges for both if you are looking for a unisex product to replace diabetic socks. Their mild non-constricting gradient pressure provides protection against wrinkles, sliding, as well as bunching.
The foot area in the SensiFoot diabetic socks is densely cushioned to minimize friction. Apart from diabetics, these diabetic socks are also helpful for those struggling with arthritis.
SensiFoot Knee-High Mild Diabetic Compression Socks Large, Black
Price: $31.88
Product Details
SensiFoot knee-high mild compression socks are moisture-wicking padded acrylic socks that keep the feet dry as well as cool all day long. The construction material is also non-irritant and completely smooth so the chances of getting redness or rubbing from these diabetic socks is extremely low.
In addition, the SensiFoot diabetic socks apply minimum pressure on sensitive skin. This way, the chances of blisters are effectively avoided. Their antimicrobial material is also efficient in preventing a bacterial or fungal infection. As a result, unpleasant foot odor is not caused. The SensiFoot diabetic socks are perfect for use by both men and women.
SensiFoot Crew Length Mild Compression Diabetic Sock Medium, White
Price: $31.88
Product Details
BSN Jobst SensiFoot crew mild compression diabetic socks cover up to mid-calf and are ideal for those suffering from diabetic neuropathy. Their non-constricting gradient pressure is mild on the skin.
In addition, the BSN Jobst SensiFoot diabetic socks also protect the wearer against sliding, bunching, or being hurt by hard objects. This is achieved due to the dense padding these diabetic socks have near the foot, heel, and toe areas. Moreover, the BSN Jobst SensiFoot products are also suitable for patients who suffer from arthritis who already use them and want to replace diabetic socks.
SmartKnit Seamless Crew Diabetic Socks with X-STATIC Latex-Free Materials, Black, Large
Price: $31.88
Product Details
SmartKnit seamless crew diabetic socks are latex-free products that are made using super stretchy material. The core-spun yarn hugs your feet and legs perfectly giving a comfortable feel. Its seamless toes further reduce the pressure around the toes. The SmartKnit diabetic socks are also available in mini-crew, crew, as well as over-the-calf versions.
Men’s Diabetic Sock Size 10 – 13, White
Price: $63.88
Product Details
Men’s diabetic socks are one of the best options for the prevention of irritation as well as pressure on the feet. Their neuropathy padding helps protect injuries and traumas to the feet area as it effectively absorbs pressure and shock. The seamless toes provide extra comfort while the product allows proper airflow to the feet.
*Note: The prices mentioned in the article are taken from the Health Supply 770 website. These may vary depending on the vendor.
The diabetic socks mentioned in this article, along with many other medical supplies, can be purchased from Health Supply 770, a reliable name when it comes to medical products. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide your products to you in the shortest possible time. Click the links given in the article to check the wide range of diabetic socks on the website.
Bottom Line
People living with diabetes often experience skin irritation, blisters, rubbing, redness, infections, as well as ulcers in their feet. Apart from keeping their feet clean, podiatrists also advise them to use diabetic socks.
These diabetic socks are breathable, comfortable to wear, and effectively prevent infections. In addition, these also regulate blood pressure in the lower extremities in people with diabetes. When properly maintained, a pair of diabetic socks can last for around 6 months.
However, when used on a daily basis, it is best to timely replace diabetic socks with newer pairs so that their effectiveness is not diminished. While buying diabetic socks, reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 should be approached as they not only ensure the provision of quality products but also offer satisfactory services. So check out their website and replace diabetic socks today.
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
