People with diabetes are commonly affected by foot problems. High blood sugar can damage the nerves and blood vessels in the feet, and nerve damage makes people lose feeling in their feet and legs. Diabetic people should never walk barefoot. Even inside their house, they must wear ankle socks or shoes. Ankle socks cover the feet and reach below the ankle.
Moreover, there should not be any pebbles or other hard particles between the shoes and socks because it causes injury to the feet. People suffering from high blood sugar can buy ankle socks online and keep their feet protected even when they stay indoors. Diabetic ankle socks are designed to dry the feet and decrease foot injury.
How diabetes affects the feet
Diabetes damages the feet and toes. A constant high blood sugar level leads to damaged blood vessels and nerves. People lose sensation in their toes and feet and may not notice the appearance of blisters and ulcers. It can lead to severe infections if not treated at an early stage.
Diabetic socks
Diabetic socks are soft socks that prevent uncomfortable skin from rubbing against any surface. They keep feet drier than ordinary socks because they are made of material that wicks away moisture. These socks have extra padding to prevent blisters and corns. They protect the feet well and do not leave any visible compression lines.
Ankle socks
Ankle socks are short but provide the right amount of comfort while walking and running. The socks reach a few inches above the shoe and sit just above the ankle. They add a layer of softness and prevent blisters on the feet, especially in the summer. Generally, people wear ankle socks with trainers or sports shoes to provide protection and padding to the heel and ball of the foot. Wearing ankle socks is better than pushing longer socks down because they look bulky and uncomfortable.
Features of diabetic ankle socks
Warmth: Diabetes causes the blood vessels to narrow and reduces the blood flow. It decreases blood circulation to the feet. Diabetic socks are made from fabrics that keep the feet warm.
Seamless: Any protrusion in the socks can severely affect the diabetic foot. The socks rub against the skin and cause blisters and ulcers. Diabetic socks are seamless and do not irritate the skin.
Moisture-wicking: Diabetic socks are made of moisture-wicking materials and help maintain a healthy foot. The socks absorb moisture, dry quickly and keep the feet comfortable and free of infections.
Non-constricting: Diabetic socks are super stretchy and non-constricting. They are loose, and people barely feel them while wearing these socks. Tight socks restrict circulation and cause circulatory problems in diabetic patients.
Padding: Extra padding around the toes, at the heel and along the bottom in ankle socks enhances comfort. Padding is needed to prevent injury when feet are susceptible to shock while doing activities.
White sole: Diabetic ankle socks need a white sole because it alerts wearers about a draining wound. Stains on the socks require immediate attention and are visible on a white sole.
Not all diabetics need diabetic socks. Regular socks are sufficient for people who do not experience foot problems. Those who need to wear diabetic socks include
People with blisters, irritation, nerve damage, fungal infections and changes in foot colour. People with sweaty feet. People with peripheral arterial disease.
People buy ankle socks online or in retail stores. These socks are essential to keep feet comfortable and safe. They are available in many colours to suit the needs of those wearing them.