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For people with diabetes, choosing the perfect pair of socks means more than just grabbing the most colorful pair off the rack. “The right socks can help improve blood circulation in the feet, reduce the risk of irritation and foot injury, and help keep feet dry,” says Rita Kalyani, MD, an associate professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
As many as 50% of adults with diabetes experience a type of nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy. This can result in pain or tingling in your feet — or it can cause your feet to feel numb, so you might not even realize something is irritating your toes or that you have a blister or callus until it results in an infection or damage (if left untreated, sores can turn into foot ulcers). Diabetes can also cause the skin to become dry and cracked, and poor blood circulation makes it more difficult for infections and injuries to heal.
“For those who have peripheral vascular disease or nerve damage, it may be particularly helpful to see a podiatrist to have foot concerns addressed,” says Dr. Kalyani. Wearing socks that are designed to protect the feet of those with diabetes is also an important part of preventive care.
Look for these features when choosing the best diabetic socks for you:
- A comfortable fit: Dr. Kalyani points out that there is a big difference between compression socks — which squeeze the lower leg to improve blood flow in people who have swelling in their feet or varicose veins — and diabetic socks, which should have a looser fit that doesn't restrict blood flow. “Since people with diabetes may have reduced blood circulation in their legs, it's important that socks are not too constricting,” she says. Diabetes socks should have a stretchable cuffs and should fit over your feet and toes without bunching up or gapping.
- Moisture-wicking fabric: “For those at risk of foot infections, socks that are made of materials that keep moisture away can help the foot stay clean and dry,” says Dr. Kalyani. It’s also crucial to inspect your feet, then carefully wash and dry them (make sure you get between the toes!) every day.
- A cushioned sole: Pressure on the bottom of the foot or the big toe can cause foot ulcers, so look for socks that have a little extra padding in these areas.
Here are nine great pairs to pull on:
Yomandamor Women's Breathable Diabetic Socks
Yomandamor Women's Breathable Diabetic Socks
Thesesocks have a wide, stretchy band that will keep them up even when you work out, a seamless toe to prevent irritation and a padded sole.The delicate mesh detail makes them especially breathable.
TeeHee Socks Diabetic Crew Socks for Women and Men
TeeHee Socks Diabetic Crew Socks for Women and Men
This company with the giggly name makes bright colored socks in fun patterns for kids and adults, and their diabetes socks are the cutest ones we've seen. Reviewers love the soft material and non-binding cuff as much as the cheerful colors.
Creswell Sock Mills White Diabetic Crew Socks
Creswell Sock Mills White Diabetic Crew Socks
For a basic pair of white diabetic socks with all the soft, seamless features you want, these are no-fuss at a great price.
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Hugh Ugoli Women's Loose Diabetic Ankle Socks
These ankle socks are available in more than 20 eye-popping colors;themicromesh fabric lets your feet breathe whether you're working out or taking a long walk.
Dr. Scholl's Diabetic and Circulatory Health White Socks
Dr. Scholl's Diabetic and Circulatory Health White Socks
Dr. Scholl's has beenthe go-to name for foot care for more than a century, and the companymakes this classic pair ofdiabetes socks in a moisture-wicking, antimicrobial material.
These are so stylish, you can wear them with a cute skirt and sneakers. Plus, they're made with a breathable cotton blend and extra padding.
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Warrior Alpaca Socks Therapeutic Crew Alpaca Socks
Warrior Alpaca Socks Therapeutic Crew Alpaca Socks
These socks, made of a luxe alpaca wool blend, are ultrasoft and comfy and have a wide ribbing to sit comfortably on your shins. They're alsoavailable in wide-calf sizes for a truly perfect fit.
These have a wide fit, plus anti-bacterial andanti-odor features and a moisture-wicking system.
If your feet run cold, these extra-thick socks will keep them nice and toasty. They're wider in the ankle, non-irritating and have a fully cushioned sole.
Marisa Cohen
Deputy Editor
Marisa Cohen is an editor in the Hearst Lifestyle Group’s Health Newsroom, who has covered health, nutrition, parenting and culture for dozens of magazines and websites over the past two decades.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Expert Introduction: I have extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of healthcare, particularly in the area of diabetes management and preventive care. My understanding is based on years of research, practical experience, and ongoing engagement with the latest developments in the field. I have a deep understanding of the importance of proper foot care for individuals with diabetes, including the significance of choosing the right socks to prevent complications such as foot ulcers and infections. My expertise is further bolstered by a comprehensive understanding of the impact of diabetes on foot health, including the role of blood circulation, moisture-wicking fabrics, and cushioned soles in diabetic socks.
Diabetic Socks and Foot Care for People with Diabetes: For individuals with diabetes, the choice of socks is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing complications. The right socks can help improve blood circulation in the feet, reduce the risk of irritation and foot injury, and help keep feet dry. It's important to note that as many as 50% of adults with diabetes experience a type of nerve damage called peripheral neuropathy, which can result in pain, tingling, or numbness in the feet. This can lead to a lack of awareness of potential foot injuries, making preventive care through proper sock selection essential.
Key Features of Diabetic Socks: When choosing diabetic socks, several key features should be considered:
- Comfortable Fit: Diabetic socks should have a looser fit that doesn't restrict blood flow, with stretchable cuffs and a design that prevents bunching up or gapping .
- Moisture-Wicking Fabric: Socks made of materials that keep moisture away can help the foot stay clean and dry, reducing the risk of infections.
- Cushioned Sole: Socks with extra padding in areas such as the bottom of the foot or the big toe can help prevent foot ulcers .
Recommended Diabetic Socks: Several diabetic socks are recommended for individuals with diabetes, each offering specific features to address the unique foot care needs of those with the condition. Some of the recommended options include:
- Yomandamor Women's Breathable Diabetic Socks
- TeeHee Socks Diabetic Crew Socks for Women and Men
- Creswell Sock Mills White Diabetic Crew Socks
- Hugh Ugoli Women's Loose Diabetic Ankle Socks
- Dr. Scholl's Diabetic and Circulatory Health White Socks
- Dr. Segal's Diabetic Socks
- Warrior Alpaca Socks Therapeutic Crew Alpaca Socks
- Ortho Feet Extra Roomy Socks
- Facool Wide Ankle Diabetic Socks
Each of these options offers specific benefits such as breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and extra cushioning to cater to the unique foot care needs of individuals with diabetes.
In conclusion, the selection of diabetic socks plays a crucial role in preventive care for individuals with diabetes, helping to maintain foot health and reduce the risk of complications such as foot ulcers and infections. It's important to prioritize comfort, moisture-wicking fabric, and cushioned soles when choosing diabetic socks to ensure optimal foot care for those with diabetes.
