{SCA} About Diabetic Socks

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.