Socks For Diabetics

Nearly 20 percent of all people with diabetes will experience foot ulceration during their lifetime. Although disease management practices for diabetes have improved, foot problems remain the most common cause of hospitalization among diabetics. The basic reason is that diabetes tends to decrease the amount of blood flow to the feet and to reduce the ability of nerves to feel sensations in the extremities. Cuts or sores tend to go unnoticed and take very long to heal properly. To help avoid foot problems, people with diabetes are often advised to wear diabetic socks. Diabetic socks are specially designed thick, seamless socks with very high moisture-wicking properties to keep feet dry. White cotton-blended diabetic socks are probably the best, since cotton wicks away moisture and promotes good air circulation around the foot. The white color makes it easy to spot blood or skin secretions from injury or any open wound the individual may not feel. Wool and other fibers may also be used in a diabetic sock.  Regardless of the material used, it is important for a diabetic sock to be non-constricting (exerting surface pressure no greater than 15 mmHg) and seamless, especially over bony prominences. This ensures that blood circulation in the feet will not be further impaired. A diabetic sock usually has a thicker sole than the standard sock. It is advisable to wear diabetic socks with properly fitting shoes, preferably with a spacious toe box, proper arch support and smooth liners. A perfectly fitting shoe helps prevent corns, calluses and other foot problems. Together, the shoes and the diabetic socks should fit the feet snugly but not tightly. Shoes should never be worn without diabetic socks; otherwise the feet could get too moist and possibly experience skin breakdown.