It is common for people living with diabetes to have sensitive feet and suffer from various foot conditions. Problems range from foot pain, general fatigue, sore arches, coldness or tingling like pins and needles or nerve damage on their feet.
Dr. Frank, Podiatrist, National Foot & Ankle in Washington, DC says, majority of people with diabetes suffer from diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. Neuropathy happens because uncontrolled high blood sugar damages blood vessels and capillaries that provide oxygen to nerves. When nerves are deprived of oxygen it can be painful or cause complete loss of feeling. Without proper functioning nerves, it becomes difficult to sense if something is too hot or too cold or if they have a cut or sore on their feet. Not knowing this can lead to serious infections and complications.
Peripheral vascular disease causes the blood vessels to become narrow, decreasing the blood flow to the legs and feet. Decreased blood flow slows down healing of any cuts or sores which increases the chance of developing ulcers. Diabetes can also cause weaker, drier skin. In these cases, a health care provider will recommend wearing only white socks and wearing them all the time.
Patients, at any stage of diabetes, need to protect their feet a little more than others. Heath care providers recommend
that wearing the appropriate pair of socks is just as important as wearing diabetic shoes. Movement can really help prevent serious foot issues!
- What are diabetic socks?
Diabetic socks are made with special design elements, that are not usually available in regular socks. They safeguard Diabetic foot from developing additional problems and help keep it comfortable and healthy.
Diabetic socks are designed to allow maximum blood flow, to reduce the risk of foot injury, and keep the feet dry. They are engineered to promote a temporary increase in local circulation.
Features of Diabetic Socks
1. Seamless
- Choose socks that have seamless toes and heals. Even a small lump of extra yarn can have an uncomfortable impact on the diabetic foot. Socks with seams can rub against the skin and can cause irritation or blisters, which may be harmful for diabetic feet.
The best diabetic socks are seamless and knitted with inverse linking, which keeps the ends of the toe-linking thread outside rather than inside the sock.
3. Padding
Socks with padding for sensitive areas help prevent injury and enhances comfort.
Usually, the padding runs along the bottom of the sock, around the toes, and at the heel of the foot, which are normally susceptible to the most shock forces during activities and hence need to be cushioned even more.
7. Anti-microbial
Again, material such as hemp have anti-microbial properties, naturally. That prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi in the moisture prone regions of the foot, keeping it healthy. There are other good diabetic socks that are treated with anti-microbial technology. Eliminating bacteria and fungi also gets rid of stinky feet!
8. Soft yarns:
Diabetic socks should be made from fabrics that are extra soft against the skin. Bamboo fibers, hemp, cashmere are excellent options that reduce friction and impact on the skin.
2. Non-constricting
Opt for socks that are non-binding and do not have elastics at the top. The fit of diabetic socks should be loose, non-constricting and have a sufficient stretch in the material. Tight socks can inhibit circulation, which might be challenging for those who suffer from circulatory issues.
4. Warmth
Buy diabetic socks made from materials that keep feet warm and help improve blood circulation, like wool or hemp. Low blood sugar can cause blood vessels to constrict, decreasing blood flow to the feet, resulting in cold feet syndrome.
5. White Sole
White socks are recommended for people with compromised sensation, as it helps alert wearers to a draining wound. Stains from infections, open cuts and sores that require immediate attention will be very visible on a white sole.
6. Moisture-wicking
Socks Materials like Hemp are naturally moisture wicking, which keep feet dry, prevent skin infections and keeps you comfortable for long periods.
Today, many socks in the market are knitted with special yarns that are infused with advanced technology to help maintain healthy feet. Synthetic yarns such as polyester and nylon can move moisture out of the sock and quickly dry up, but they are not environmentally friendly and there are plenty of natural options available.
Diabetic or not, these features should be a must-have in any good socks. Check out some of our recommendations for diabetic socks.
Ready to give your feet some comfort?
Check out some of our recommendation for diabetic socks.
