Wednesday, September 14, 2011

What Makes A Good Pair Of Diabetic Socks?

One thing that may not be clear to many people with diabetes in the early stages are what are diabetics socks, what makes them so, and why are diabetic socks necessary. The simple fact of the matter is that socks designed specifically for diabetics are really no more than socks which are designed for people with sensitive feet. For the most part both socks are designed to accomplish the same goals of minimizing irritation and maximizing the foot's ability to stay healthy.

A good diabetic sock is slightly more expensive than a standard socks for a couple reasons. First they are almost always seamless which is different than cheaper mass produced socks with sometimes bulk seams near the toes and heels. Seamless socks are a little more challenging to make but the extra effort is worth it because there are no pressure points created by the sock at the seams for diabetics to have to manage or live with.

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Additionally these socks are also made of the highest quality fibers which are designed to lift moisture from and away from the feet. For most people a little foot sweat is no big deal but if you have sensitive feet and are prone to developing sores on your feet pulling the moisture away from them is very important.

Basically these are issues for diabetics for a couple different reasons. A newly diagnosed diabetic may not relate to these reasons because the disease has not yet reached advanced stages but staying on top of it and managing these concerns before they are a problem is a much better approach to long term care.

First of all type-2 diabetics are characterized by their bodies inability to effectively manage glucose levels in the blood stream. Insulin is secreted to help metabolize glucose but it progressively takes more insulin to get the job done as your condition worsens. Over time, many years for some people, the damage that high levels of circulating glucose and insulin in the blood takes on your body results in a couple of conditions which added together are greater than the two conditions separately.

One, the extremities begin receiving reduced blood flow which can make healing difficult. And two, the nerves in the outer extremities such as the feet slowly lose sensation making it easier to hurt you feet without realizing it.

A good pair of diabetic socks addresses both issues in that it makes it difficult for your feet to develop foot ulcers, sores, or cuts by limiting the irritation and pressure points socks can sometimes put on the foot. They will be sized appropriately and will be unlikely to bunch up in the shoe. These socks will keep moisture from staying near your foot which also helps to minimize irritation and helps keep sores or cuts that may exist already less prone to infection.

The cost on getting socks specifically designed for people with diabetes is an integral part of any diabetic management program. Obviously you need the right shoes, you need to watch what you eat, and get plenty of exercise but taking this extra step to ensure the health of your feet by wearing diabetic socks is worth the price.

What Makes A Good Pair Of Diabetic Socks?

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