Diabetic Socks - What are they, and why are they needed? Why does someone with diabetes need special socks?
While not all diabetics are required to wear diabetic socks, people with diabetes are more prone to foot injuries and infections because of damage to their circulatory and nervous systems and even their immune system. Diabetic socks are designed to prevent the dangerous and deleterious consequences that can develop as a result of these medical conditions. For example, nerve damage (or neuropathy) results in decreased sensation and increased risk of injury. Circulatory problems slow down the body’s ability to heal and high blood sugar levels compromise the body’s immune system. All of these medical conditions can result in greater risk of injury and infection to the feet, and diabetic socks address these conditions specifically.
What are diabetic socks?
Diabetic socks are specially designed to decrease the risk of foot injury, to offer maximum blood flow, and keep the feet dry. Below is a list of the most important features to look for in diabetic socks: Seamless: Socks with seams can rub against the skin and can cause blisters or ulcers, which may be harmful for diabetic feet. Ideally, the seamless design of the socks should feature an inverse linking, which keeps the ends of the toe-linking thread outside. Non-constricting: The fit of diabetic socks should be loose and non-constricting. Tight socks can inhibit circulation, which might be challenging for those who suffer from circulatory issues. Padding: Extra padding and cushioning for sensitive areas help prevent injury and enhances comfort. Normally the extra padding runs along the bottom of the sock, around the toes, and at the heel of the foot. Warmth: Diabetes can cause blood vessels to restrict, decreasing circulation to the feet. Diabetic socks should be made from fabrics that keep feet warm help to improve blood circulation. White Sole: A white sole is important for people with compromised sensation, as it helps alert wearers to a draining wound. Moisture-wicking: Keeping feet dry helps preventing skin infections. Today, many diabetic socks are made from a combination of materials such as acrylic, polyester, bamboo, and charcoal, which offer more moisture-wicking ability than cotton socks. Anti-microbial: This is an important feature for diabetic socks because it prevents bacterial and fungal growth in the moisture prone regions of the feet. Soft yarns: Diabetic socks are often made from finer texture fabrics out of materials that contain bamboo in order to reduce rough abrasion and shear forces on the skin. Even though diabetic socks are specifically designed to meet the requirements for comfortable and healthy diabetic feet, anyone can wear these socks to benefit from their higher quality and comfort. However, persons with diabetes will truly benefit from ALL the design features as well as see a change in their lifestyles. What is the difference between diabetic socks and compression socks?
Some diabetics may also require compression socks, but compressions socks and diabetic socks are not the same thing. While diabetic socks are designed to minimize pressure on the lower leg and foot, the main purpose of compression socks is to exert pressure on the legs in order to increase blood pressure, which allows more blood to be quickly returned to the heart (needed for the prevention of swelling and the formation of blood clots). Compression socks are tighter and more binding that diabetic and even regular socks. We are proud to say that Orthofeet’s BioSoft socks meet all of the requirements for functional and comfortable diabetic socks. Feel free to visit our website and see our selection of high-quality diabetic socks for men and women