If you have diabetes, protecting your feet should be one of your top priorities. Due to diabetics dealing with nerve and circulatory problems associated with the condition, people with diabetes are much more susceptible to cuts, blisters, cracked skin, and other foot problems—and if those are left untreated, they can even develop into dangerous wounds.

One of the best ways to help provide that protection is by wearing diabetic socks. Although from the outside, they might not look much different from “normal” socks, they are thoughtfully designed with materials and features that can help keep diabetic feet safe. In fact, you don’t even have to have diabetes to benefit from them.

But that all being said, not all diabetic socks are created equal. So if you’re in the market for some socks that will help protect your feet from damage, you should make sure you know what to look for.

Or, if you’re near our office in Surprise, Arizona, you could just stop in and see us! We carry a large selection of high-quality diabetic socks in several sizes and styles and would be glad to help you select the best pairs for your current needs!

diabetic socks | Surprise, AZ Diabetic Podiatrist

Diabetic Socks: The Basics

The most basic design choice that every pair of diabetic socks shares—in other words, the thing that actually makes them diabetic socks—is non-binding construction. 

Most “regular socks” generally fit pretty loosely around your feet and even parts of your ankles and calves (depending on how high they’re cut) and are held in place by an elastic band. 

Unfortunately, this design choice can have a negative effect on people with diabetes. A tight elastic band can impair circulation to the feet (especially if your circulation has already been compromised by your condition), putting you at greater risk of problems like varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). That can also make it even harder for cuts, blisters, and other injuries to heal.

Instead of being held up by a single elastic band, non-binding socks are made from fabric blends that spread out the “tightness” over the entire area of the sock. You get a nice, close fit that won’t fall down or slide around but also won’t put excessive constriction or pressure on any one part of your feet or legs. This helps promote healthy circulation while keeping you comfortable.

Diabetic Socks Vs. Compression Socks/Stockings

It’s important to understand that diabetic socks are not the same as compression stockings. Diabetic socks are meant to facilitate circulation, while compression socks are designed specifically to limit it. Although some people with diabetes may benefit from higher levels of compression in certain situations, others definitely need much lower compression. So please, don’t get these two confused!

Diabetic Sock Features- What To Look For

While being non-binding is the most essential feature of diabetic socks, they can also be made with many additional features and considerations that can be greatly beneficial.

  • Breathable/moisture-wicking fabric. The amount of wicking a sock will do depends on the blend of fabrics used. Socks with good moisture-wicking properties keep feet drier, which will in turn lower your risk of skin problems, fungal infections, and blisters. Especially consider these for closed-toed shoes.

  • Padded soles. Many pairs of diabetic socks have gel or silicone pads sewn into the soles to provide extra protection and cushioning for various areas of the foot. Often these pads may be positioned in different places in order to facilitate certain activities—for example, extra toe padding for court sports or soccer, or extra heel padding for people who stand a lot.

  • Seamless interiors. If you have sensitive skin, something as seemingly insignificant as an interior seam can produce enough friction to break the skin or cause blisters. 

  • Antimicrobial. In some pairs of diabetic socks, the yarn is infused with copper or silver as a defense against microbes that can cause fungal infections like athlete’s foot. They can also help with foot odor.

  • White soles. Some diabetic socks come with lighter-colored soles, even if the rest of the sock is more darkly colored. This can be helpful for spotting a wound that might be draining, since it will stain the sock. That said, you should always be checking your feet on a daily basis if you have diabetes.

Diabetic socks come in just about all styles and lengths, from no-shows all the way to calf and even over-the-knee cuts. You definitely don’t have to give up your sense of fashion in order to get the right socks for your feet!

diabetic socks | Surprise, AZ Diabetic Podiatrist

Are Diabetic Socks Only for People with Diabetes?

No!

Many people might be concerned that “if it’s good for people with diabetes, it might be bad (or at best unnecessary) for people without it.” But the truth is that while diabetic socks are obviously much more necessary for people with certain specific foot problems, you definitely don’t need to have the condition to enjoy their many benefits.

Some examples:

  • If you have especially large or thick calves, you may find that a non-binding sock is a lot more comfortable to wear than socks with tight elastic bands. There are also special sizes to further accommodate.
  • Athletes and active people generally love diabetic socks, especially styles that are seamless, moisture-wicking, and/or padded. You may find that you experience less pain and develop fewer blisters than you did with your “regular” athletic socks. (They’re often cheaper, too.)
  • Although compression socks are often recommended for pregnant women, non-binding diabetic socks are often also a good choice and may actually be better in some situations. They can significantly promote circulation to help you deal with aching and swelling feet.
  • If you just tend to be prone to blisters, foot odor, athlete’s foot, or other skin problems, diabetic socks might be a good choice.

To put it another way: who wouldn’t want a pair of socks that promote circulation, keeps their feet dry, and reduces the risk of blisters? Just about anyone can benefit.

Protecting Your Feet Is Our Business

At Fixing Feet Institute, we’re always looking out for the welfare of your feet and ankles. As mentioned earlier, we carry a wide selection of diabetic socks in different styles and for different purposes and would be happy to help you select a good pair.

We also provide comprehensive foot care services for patients of all ages, both with diabetes and without. If you have any current concerns about your feet or ankles, or you have diabetes, and it’s been more than a year since you saw a podiatrist, please give us a call to schedule your next appointment. You can also request an appointment or more information using our online contact form

 
Dr. Viedra V. Elison
Founder and Managing Partner of Fixing Feet Institute
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