Are you struggling with diabetes-related foot injuries? If yes, diabetic socks are the product you need. These protect the feet from getting cuts, and sores, as well as from infections. Moreover, diabetic socks also ensure proper blood circulation to the feet. Let us understand why these are important, what are their benefits and types, and how can you choose suitable diabetic socks for yourself.
Diabetes-Related Food Injuries: How Diabetic Socks Help?
In diabetic patients, foot injuries are one of the common problems that are easy to get but very hard to heal. The reason behind this is diabetic neuropathy, a condition in which the sensation in the feet is reduced due to constantly high blood sugar levels. As a result, the diabetics do not feel if their feet get injured as no pain or discomfort is felt.
This way, the necessary treatment is delayed thus increasing the chances of an infection leading to amputation. However, with proper protective measures, such as the use of diabetic socks, such injuries can be effectively prevented.
Every year, approximately 130,000 lower-extremity amputations in the US happen due to diabetes-related foot injuries.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Benefits of Diabetic Socks
The diabetic socks provide the following benefits to the diabetics:
● Improved Blood Circulation
Diabetic patients often suffer from swelling in their feet or legs due to poor circulation. By wearing diabetic socks, compression is applied to the blood vessels which improves blood flow. In addition, the feet also remain warm and the patient feels more comfortable.
● Moisture Control
Sweat between the digits of our feet makes us prone to contracting bacterial and fungal foot infections such as athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, etc. In diabetics, treating these infections is extremely hard.
The easy way out is the use of diabetic socks as a preventive measure. The diabetic socks are made using moisture-wicking material that allows the evaporation of moisture and sweat from the feet thus maintaining a dry environment.
● Reduction of Foot Injuries
As diabetics often experience numbness in their feet, they can’t know immediately if they get injured as no pain or discomfort can be felt. This is problematic as these minor injuries can spread to cause major infections which are hard to treat.
Bacteria feed on sugar and the blood of a diabetic has higher than normal concentrations of glucose thus becoming an ideal growth environment for the microbes. As a result, in no time, a minor injury can lead to complications (like infection spreading to the bones) which can result in digits or even foot amputation.
By using diabetic socks, these injuries can be effectively avoided. Moreover, the chances of getting foot ulcers, blisters, and sores are also reduced.
● Temperature Regulation
In case of a foot injury, the temperature of the foot increases due to inflammation around the wounded area. Some diabetic socks can sense this temperature difference and indicate an injury. While others regulate the feet’ temperature. During summers, these diabetic socks allow the influx of air which keeps the feet dry. However, in winter, these socks maintain a dry environment on the feet while keeping them warm.
Types of Diabetic Socks
Based on your needs and preferences, you can choose a suitable pair of diabetic socks from the multiple options available in the market. These products vary in terms of their length and compression properties and have been listed below:
● Over-the-Calf Socks
The over-the-calf diabetic socks are the longest version of the product which protects the leg along with feet. Their non-binding tops make them comfortable for longer wear and the product is also an ideal choice for protection against slippage.
● Crew-Length Socks
The crew-length socks are longer in size and cover up to half of the calf area. These are ideal for those who prefer their socks to be long and snuggly. The pressure points in the legs are also managed by the use of crew-length socks.
● Ankle-Length Socks
The ankle-length socks are a shorter version of the diabetic socks particularly designed for those who do not like to wear longer socks. In addition to being an excellent choice for foot health, these ankle-length socks also serve the recent fashion trends and are a great option for all-day wear with sneakers for an everyday look.
● Compression Diabetic Socks
Compression diabetic socks are particularly designed to reduce swelling by applying gentle but effective pressure on the feet as well as on the legs. As a result, the lower limbs experience better circulation. This way, problems such as swelling in the relevant areas can be managed. The product is available in different compression levels so one must choose the one which is best according to the condition.
How to Choose the Best Diabetic Socks?
While choosing a good pair of diabetic socks, consider the following as a buying guide:
● Material Considerations
The construction material of the diabetic socks is the moisture-wicking fabric which is fully breathable and keeps the feet dry. Usually, top-quality cotton is used for this purpose. These socks also come in different colors including black, white, gray, and navy to match your everyday wear. Some brands are also making diabetic socks in bold colors to provide more options to the wearers.
● Circulation Enhancing Design
The construction is also seamless which provides a smoother shape and comfortable fit. Moreover, the non-binding tops of the diabetic socks also prevent constriction on the blood vessels in the legs thus boosting proper circulation.
● Proper Fit
As diabetic socks come in different sizes, it is essential to choose one that fits your feet properly. Wearing diabetic socks which are too tight hinders blood circulation in the legs and feet while donning a pair with a much looser fit does not provide proper protection against injuries.
● Cushioning and Padding
The diabetic socks also have cushioning and padding in the areas that cover sensitive parts of the feet i.e. balls, heels, etc. By doing so, the product provides extra protection and also reduces the chances of injuries.
● Antimicrobial Properties
Some brands manufacture compression socks with antimicrobial properties, a feature that enables the product to automatically prevent bacterial buildup in the feet. This way, the prevention of infections and foot diseases is enhanced.
Care and Maintenance of Diabetic Socks
For taking good care of your diabetic socks, keep in mind the following:
Wash Your Diabetic Socks Daily
After wearing your diabetic socks for a full day, it is necessary to wash those before another use as they become sweaty and smelly, both of which are ideal conditions for microbial buildup.
● It is advised to wash your diabetic socks by hand with cold water.
● If you are putting them in a washing machine, use a mesh laundry bag.
● Use scent-free detergent which is not harsh against the product.
● Air dry your diabetic socks by putting them on a clothesline.
● The use of bleach is not recommended. One should also not iron diabetic socks as by doing so, the product may lose its elasticity.
Proper Storage is Necessary
After washing, the diabetic socks should be stored in a dry place until the next use.
Replace When the Need Be
Diabetic socks with rips and holes in them cannot protect your feet properly. Additionally, if the material has become thinner after extensive use, it cannot provide necessary protection against possible injuries. Therefore, it is good to keep a check on your diabetic socks. If they have signs of wear and tear, it is the right time to replace them.
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Diabetic Socks: Top Brands, Products, and Specifications
Many brands manufacture diabetic socks in different sizes, lengths, compression fits, and colors which gives so many options to the buyers. 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.
SensiFoot Knee-High Mild Compression Diabetic Sock Large, Black
SensiFoot knee-high compression socks are perfect for use by both men and women as the product covers different size ranges for both. Their mild non-constricting gradient pressure provides protection against wrinkles, sliding, as well as bunching. The foot area is densely cushioned to minimize friction. Apart from diabetics, these socks are also helpful for those struggling with arthritis.
SmartKnit Seamless Diabetic Crew Socks with X-STATIC Latex-Free Materials, Black, Large
SmartKnit seamless diabetic crew 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 product is also available in mini-crew, crew, as well as over-the-calf versions.
Men’s Diabetic Sock Size 10 – 13, White
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.
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.
Conclusion
Diabetic socks are one of the essential products needed for the prevention and management of foot problems in diabetics. Due to their fine construction, breathable material, and proper padding, these diabetic socks can effectively prevent injuries as well as the chances of contracting foot infections. In addition, these also promote circulation in the feet and legs.
When properly maintained, a pair of diabetic socks can last for around 6 months. After that, it is best to best to replace the product. 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.
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References
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/hcp/clinical-guidance/diabetes-podiatrist-health.html
Additional Resources
How long diabetic socks do last?
A pair of diabetic socks can be used for 6 months. If the wear and tear starts before this time, it is best to change your pair.
How should diabetic socks fit?
Diabetic socks should snugly fit your feet and legs. Look for a suitable size that is neither too tight nor too loose.
Do diabetic socks have elastic?
No, the diabetic socks are made without the top elastic as it can restrict blood flow to the feet. They have a non-binding fit which stays in place without causing discomfort.
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.
