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If you or someone you know has Diabetes, you probably know that this disease is a leading cause of numerous foot problems for the 15.7 million people who have the difficult-to-control illness. Diabetic Socks can help.
Neuropathy, nervous-system impairment, is one of the major complications of Diabetes. The problem affects about 60 to 70 percent Diabetics. Because it can cause you to lose feeling in your feet or hands, you may not become immediately aware of injuries. Foot problems, specifically, carry a high risk.
According to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, Diabetics must monitor feet daily, as complications can be as severe as amputation. During a foot inspection, you or your helper should look for puncture wounds, bruises, pressure areas, redness, warmth, blisters, ulcers, scratches, cuts and nail problems. Feel each foot for swelling. Examine between your toes. Check six major locations on the bottom of each foot: The tip of the big toe, base of the little toes, base of the middle toes, heel, outside edge of the foot and across the ball of the foot. Check for sensation in each foot.
With a Diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a tight shoe, or a sock that rubs the skin, can cause a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases your blood flow, so your injuries are slow to heal. When your wound is not healing, it’s at risk for infection. As a diabetic, your infections spread quickly. If you find any injury — no matter how slight — don’t try to treat it yourself. Go to a doctor right away.
Here’s some advice for buying the proper diabetic socks to take care of your feet:
- Keep your feet warm; sleep in loose-fitting socks.
- Though the best socks cost more, buy them! Wear clean, dry socks every day. Avoid socks with holes or wrinkles.
- Diabetic crew socks provide a loose top for better circulation and a full cushion across the bottom for comfort and blister protection.
- Buy seam-free socks also help reduce the risk of skin irritations and foot ulcers.
- Avoid stockings with constricting elastic tops.
- Thin cotton socks are more absorbent for summer wear.
- Look for square-toes socks that won’t squeeze your toes and fit better in your shoes.
- Designed for those with serious edema, or heavier people, look for socks that can stretch up to an amazing 25 inches in circumference.
Some brand names to look for when seeking those properties include CoolMax, a moisture-wicking fiber that help keep the feet dry and healthy. Silipos® Arthritic / Diabetic Gel Socks have a gel insole to provide added support, cushioning, and comfort. SmartKnit® Wide Seamless Socks with X-STATIC™ are designed for people with serious edema or larger legs and feet. X-STATIC™ high-tech silver fibers act as a natural antimicrobial, which helps keep the skin healthy.
The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society also recommends these shoe basics for healthier feet:
- Never walk barefoot, or in sandals or flip-flops.
- Choose and wear your shoes carefully. Buy new shoes late in the day when your feet are larger.
- Buy shoes that are comfortable without a “breaking in” period.
- Avoid pointed-toe styles and high heels.
- Look for leather uppers and deep toe boxes.
- Don’t wear the same pair everyday.
From a blister standpoint, you should also experiment with thickness of socks and the way they fit in your shoes. If your socks thick, leaving no room, you need bigger shoes or thinner socks. When buying shoes, bring along the sock you plan to wear.
When getting dressed, some Diabetics find that compression garments are easier to put on when you first get out of bed, before swelling occurs. Skin should be dry, or lightly apply cornstarch powder. Remove your rings and jewelry that make it difficult to apply socks properly. Avoid bunching the fabric, which is similar to creating a super rubber band. The final tip is to apply moisturizer to your legs and feet in the evening, not before putting on socks.
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Posted by blogger as Articles, Helpful Socks at 7:18 PM PDT