What Are Diabetic Socks
Posted on January 20, 2010
Filed Under diabetic socks, socks for diabetics | 4 Comments
Diabetic socks are referred to by many different names (e.g. specialty socks, seamless diabetic socks, loose non-binding socks, support socks for diabetics, diabetic shoe socks, and medical socks). From the many comments in health forums, it seems that the general view of diabetic socks is that they are expensive (a subjective term I know) and that tube socks or regular socks will work as a substitute. Regarding price, As for price, diabetic socks cost about the same as most quality regular socks and many online companies run specials on packs of three or more. And, as I will explain, while there are some similarities between the two types of socks, but there are significant distinctions.
Regular socks are typically made of natural materials (cotton, wool, or a blend of the two, the latter of which is typically 80% natural fibers and %20 synthetics). Natural materials absorb moisture from the feet and subsequently become damp enough to cause the foot to slide inside the shoe, which can cause blisters or sores.
Most manufacturers make and sell synthetic diabetic socks. The advantage of their socks over regular socks is that synthetic materials quickly wisk moisture away for the skin, which aids in minimizing the possibility of getting blisters and henders an environment that can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which in concert with moisture could cause serious infections.
A regular sock, because of its natural fiber composition, has a tendency to shrink, has seams in the toe area, and has elastic cuff-tops. Seams and elastic tops can hurt a diabetics toes, especially if their feet are sensitive due to nerve damage. Even the slightest unevenness in the toe area caused either by seams or material bunching up can be extremely painful. While elastic tops are great for keeping your socks from falling down around your ankle, for a diabetic, any pressure beyond what’s necessary to keep your socks from falling down around your ankles can be effect their leg circulation.
Though similar in appearance to regular, athletic, or tube socks, the big difference is that support socks for diabetics have non-binding cuff-tops, are seamless in the toe area, and the socks won’t wrinkle underfoot or bunch up around the toes – one of the biggest threats to diabetics with nerve damaged sensitive feet (pheripheral neuropathy). Seamless toe socks are typically worn as the primary layer between the skin and shoe, however, in some cases where swelling is present in the legs and feet, it’s recommended that support socks for diabetics be worn as a second layer over prescription (custom fitted) or non-prescription graduated compression hose.
Diabetic sock for men and women can be purchased in the foot care section of most pharmacies and medical supply stores. Also some department stores may carry them. Make sure that the socks for diabetics you choose offers a money back guarantee if after wearing them you are not completely satisfied. Also, check with your insurance or Medicare coverage before purchasing socks for diabetics, as they may be partially or fully paid for.
Comments
4 Responses to “What Are Diabetic Socks”
Leave a Reply
Finally, a site that is dedicated to comforting and protecting sensitive, diabetic feet. Thanks, I’m always trying to find some socks for my diabetic Mom, and I never knew what the difference between compression socks and support socks for diabetics. Good to know, and thanks!
Lisa-
I’m glad the info helps.
Hi Jim,
Just wanted to say hello!
Your blog is looking very nifty!
Thanks Penny.