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{{short description|Non-binding, seamless sock for those with foot problems due to diabetes or other conditions}}
A '''diabetic sock''' is a non-binding and non-elasticized [[sock]] which is designed so as to not constrict the foot or leg.{{cn|date=July 2016}} Typically sufferers of [[diabetes]] are the most common users of this type of sock.<ref name="diabuk">[http://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetic-socks.html Diabetic Socks - What is a Diabetic Sock & What Socks are Available]</ref> Diabetes raises the blood sugar level, which can increase the risk of [[diabetic foot ulcer|foot ulcers]]. Diabetic socks are made to be unrestrictive of circulation.{{cn|date=July 2016}}
People with diabetes have a greater chance of developing neuropathy, vascular disease, and infections, especially in the legs, so socks and footwear that reduce or eliminate pressures or hot spots is important. A '''diabetic sock''' is a non-restrictive, but close fitting [[sock]] which is designed to alleviate pressures on the foot or leg.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Veves|first1=Aristidis|last2=Giurini|first2=John M.|last3=LoGerfo|first3=Frank W.|title=The Diabetic Foot: Medical and Surgical Management|date=2012|publisher=Springer Science & Business Media|isbn=9781617797910|page=266|language=en}}</ref> Typically sufferers of [[diabetes]] are the most common users of this type of sock.<ref name="diabuk">[http://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetic-socks.html Diabetic Socks - What is a Diabetic Sock & What Socks are Available]</ref> Diabetes raises the blood sugar level, which can increase the risk of [[diabetic foot ulcer|foot ulcers]]. Diabetic socks are made to be non-restrictive to circulation, but if inclusive of Medical Grade, FDA regulated gradient compression, they may include venous compression for enhanced blood circulation.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-06-27|title=Why Is Foot Care So Important?|url=https://www.wellheeled.net/why-is-foot-care-so-important/|access-date=2021-09-12|website=Well Heeled|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>An Evolution of Socks and Compression Sleeves: From Simple Support to Injury Prevention</ref>


Some diabetic socks also control moisture,<ref name="diabuk"/><ref>[http://spectrum.diabetesjournals.org/content/14/2/59.full Sockwear Recommendations for People With Diabetes]</ref> a feature which can reduce the risk of infection. Another beneficial feature of diabetic socks is seamless toe-closures to reduce pressure and blistering.<ref name="diabuk"/>
Proper diabetic socks also help to manage moisture,<ref name="diabuk"/><ref>[http://spectrum.diabetesjournals.org/content/14/2/59.full Sockwear Recommendations for People With Diabetes]</ref> a feature which can reduce the risk of infection. Another beneficial feature of diabetic socks is seamless toe-closures to avoid pressure, potential hot spots and blistering.<ref name="diabuk"/>


==Varieties==
==Varieties==
Various sock constructions are available, including cotton blend with stretch tops, non-cotton with antimicrobial properties, compression type, and plain non-binding to allow circulation to flow more freely. Extra wide socks are available for excessive [[edema]].
Various sock constructions are available, including cotton blend with stretch tops, non-cotton with antimicrobial properties, compression type, and plain non-binding to allow circulation to flow more freely. Extra wide socks are available for excessive [[edema]]. So-called "non-binding" versions should not be loose to the point of having wrinkles, which can cause hot spots. The ideal sock for diabetics will be treated in the fabric fibers with an antimicrobial that lasts the life of the sock.<ref>Diabetic Sock Technical Requirements. David B. Higgins, C.F., Designer, Hosiery Specialist. Created on October 22, 2004, updated November 2009</ref>


Diabetic socks may appear like regular socks, and are available in both low-cut and mid-calf styles. Although various colors are available, white may be preferable for people with open wounds or sores, as this could alert wearers with compromised sensation to a draining wound. The diabetic socks should fit well, without constricting cuffs, lumps, or uncomfortable seams. The socks are generally made of material that does not wrinkle.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Definitive Guide to Diabetic Socks|url=http://www.wholesalediabeticsocks.com/blog/definitive-guide-diabetic-socks/|publisher=www.wholesalediabeticsocks.com|accessdate=30 July 2016|date=21 July 2016}}</ref> The advice of a podiatrist may be helpful in choosing a diabetic sock.<ref>[http://spectrum.diabetesjournals.org/content/14/2/59.full Sockwear Recommendations for People With Diabetes - Feldman and Davis 14 (2): 59 - Diabetes Spectrum]</ref>
Diabetic socks may appear like regular socks, and are available in many leg lengths. Although various colors are available, white may be preferable for people with open wounds or sores, as this could alert wearers with compromised sensation to a draining wound. The diabetic socks should fit well, without constricting cuffs, lumps, or uncomfortable seams. The advice of a podiatrist may be helpful in choosing a diabetic sock.<ref>[http://spectrum.diabetesjournals.org/content/14/2/59.full Sockwear Recommendations for People With Diabetes - Feldman and Davis 14 (2): 59 - Diabetes Spectrum]</ref>

As of current insurance policies, neither regular medical insurance nor Medicare covers diabetic socks.<ref>{{cite web|title=Everything You Need To Know About Diabetic Socks|url=https://www.thediabetescouncil.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-diabetic-socks/}}</ref>

== References ==
{{Research help|Med}}
{{reflist}}


==See also==
==See also==
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* [[Diabetic foot]]
* [[Diabetic foot]]
* [[Diabetic shoe]]
* [[Diabetic shoe]]

== References ==
{{reflist}}

{{Diabetes}}


[[Category:Diabetes-related supplies and medical equipment]]
[[Category:Diabetes-related supplies and medical equipment]]
[[Category:Socks]]
[[Category:Socks]]


{{clothing-stub}}

Latest revision as of 10:38, 16 September 2024

People with diabetes have a greater chance of developing neuropathy, vascular disease, and infections, especially in the legs, so socks and footwear that reduce or eliminate pressures or hot spots is important. A diabetic sock is a non-restrictive, but close fitting sock which is designed to alleviate pressures on the foot or leg.[1] Typically sufferers of diabetes are the most common users of this type of sock.[2] Diabetes raises the blood sugar level, which can increase the risk of foot ulcers. Diabetic socks are made to be non-restrictive to circulation, but if inclusive of Medical Grade, FDA regulated gradient compression, they may include venous compression for enhanced blood circulation.[3][4]

Proper diabetic socks also help to manage moisture,[2][5] a feature which can reduce the risk of infection. Another beneficial feature of diabetic socks is seamless toe-closures to avoid pressure, potential hot spots and blistering.[2]

Varieties

[edit]

Various sock constructions are available, including cotton blend with stretch tops, non-cotton with antimicrobial properties, compression type, and plain non-binding to allow circulation to flow more freely. Extra wide socks are available for excessive edema. So-called "non-binding" versions should not be loose to the point of having wrinkles, which can cause hot spots. The ideal sock for diabetics will be treated in the fabric fibers with an antimicrobial that lasts the life of the sock.[6]

Diabetic socks may appear like regular socks, and are available in many leg lengths. Although various colors are available, white may be preferable for people with open wounds or sores, as this could alert wearers with compromised sensation to a draining wound. The diabetic socks should fit well, without constricting cuffs, lumps, or uncomfortable seams. The advice of a podiatrist may be helpful in choosing a diabetic sock.[7]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Veves, Aristidis; Giurini, John M.; LoGerfo, Frank W. (2012). The Diabetic Foot: Medical and Surgical Management. Springer Science & Business Media. p. 266. ISBN 9781617797910.
  2. ^ a b c Diabetic Socks - What is a Diabetic Sock & What Socks are Available
  3. ^ "Why Is Foot Care So Important?". Well Heeled. 2021-06-27. Retrieved 2021-09-12.
  4. ^ An Evolution of Socks and Compression Sleeves: From Simple Support to Injury Prevention
  5. ^ Sockwear Recommendations for People With Diabetes
  6. ^ Diabetic Sock Technical Requirements. David B. Higgins, C.F., Designer, Hosiery Specialist. Created on October 22, 2004, updated November 2009
  7. ^ Sockwear Recommendations for People With Diabetes - Feldman and Davis 14 (2): 59 - Diabetes Spectrum