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Diabetic socks are not socks with diabetes. They are called
diabetic socks because they are made especially for people with
sensitive feet or feet that are susceptible to problems. Because of
a condition called neuropathy, diabetics are known to have a lot of
problems with their feet. Doctors warn their patients to pay special
attention to their feet as the condition can result in the need for
amputation. Another condition common to diabetics is poor
circulation, this, too, can result in amputation if gone untreated.
The problem for diabetics with neuropathy or poor blood
circulation isn’t just the disease, it’s that they can’t feel the
pain. Neuropathy is the loss of nerve cells and for diabetics it
usually affects their feet first. If the patient steps on something
sharp, doesn’t feel the pain and infection sets in, serious damage
can occur not to just the foot, but the infection can quickly get
into the blood system and spread.
Poor circulation is another problem; blood and nutrients don’t
travel as well to nicks or scrapes and healing takes longer, giving
infection more time to set in. Also with diabetics comes a tendency
for infection fighting white-blood cells to slow down when there is
a high concentration of blood sugar. With these and other risk
factors working against diabetics, it is imperative that they pay
special attention to their feet and footwear.
Diabetic socks are extremely comfortable, a necessity as socks
and shoes should be worn at all times, indoors and outside. They
should be made from natural materials, cotton or wool so as to
promote breathability. Wool socks “wick” the moisture away from the
body so it evaporates more quickly, keeping the foot drier and less
susceptible to fungus or cracking and flaking skin.
The socks also have non-constrictive bands at the top and seams
that do not irritate in any way. Some diabetic socks provide
support; others are non-constrictive. Many provide extra cushion on
the soles and that cushioning provides arch support and comfort.
What diabetic socks really do is provide an extra level of comfort
for those who may experience sensitivity problems with ordinary foot
coverings, and in doing so, may help keep a person with diabetes on
his feet.
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