Diabetic Socks
Diabetic Socks - comfort and protection
Many
complications of diabetes involve the feet. While diabetic socks
cannot prevent all of these problems, they can help with a lot of them. Proper
supportive socks can help prevent blood collecting in the feet and lower legs,
which can lead to injury and infection in the diabetic. Diabetic socks which
help cushion the feet and protect them from rubbing on the inside of shoes
can help prevent pressure ulcers and blisters. Many diabetic socks are designed
with minimal or no seams, to prevent friction injuries as well. Socks which
both absorb moisture and keep the feet warm can help prevent fungal infections
and encourage good circulation.
One of the most common features to look for in diabetic socks are
ones which extend to the knee, and provide firm support to the lower leg.
Poor circulation contributes to many diabetic foot and leg problems, including
slow healing of injuries, bruising, and damages arteries and nerves. Well-designed
diabetic support socks help prevent blood pooling in the feet and lower legs,
which alleviates many of these problems.
Because of dry skin and nerve problems cause by diabetes, skin injuries are
common. Shoes and socks which rub against the feet can cause blisters and
ulcers which are very slow to heal, or develop serious infections. Diabetic
socks should be thick and well padded, to help cushion the foot from pressure
ulcers and prevent friction injuries from shoes. The best options in diabetic
hosiery also avoid any seams which may rub against the toes or calves. Because
of common loss of sensation in the feet with diabetes, damage caused by friction
from socks or shoes may not be noticed until an actual injury is caused. Prevention
is the best option.
Diabetics are also prone to infections in damaged skin, and fungal infections
of the feet and toes. When looking for quality diabetic socks, try to find
brands which absorb moisture well, to help prevent such problems. Good quality
warm socks will also help improve circulation, which greatly helps healing
time if problems do occur despite your best efforts.
Your diabetic socks may be partially or fully paid for by your insurance or
Medicare coverage. It is, after all, in the insurer's best interests to help
you prevent more serious problems from developing.
See also:
Diabetic Footcare
Diabetic Shoes
Follow this link for more on footcare for diabetics at DMOZ.
[ What is Diabetes ] [ Type 1 Diabetes ] [ Type 2 Diabetes ]
[ Gestational Diabetes ] [ Diabetic Medication ] [Diabetic Recipes]
[Diabetic Shoes] [Other Resources] [Diabetes News]
[Free Diabetes Supplies on Medicare]
