How to Shop for Diabetic Socks

If you have diabetes, then by now you've heard of diabetic socks. Many new diabetic patients don't know the difference between diabetic socks and regular cotton socks, and are confused when it comes to purchase. Here are a few tips that can help you make an informed decision, for your pocket and your health.

Things You'll Need

• internet access

Instructions

1. Read consumer reviews. Although there is little testing information regarding socks, customers have left reviews of diabetic socks they have purchased, have mostly said the socks were comfortable to wear. You may consider looking at regular retail stores for a regular sock that is more comfortable, if you want to save money.

2. Find out about neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is basically nerve damage to your arms and legs. Symptoms include numbness in the extremities. With no feeling to these body parts, it is easy to get injuries and not know about them. This is of great concern, because a small cut gone untreated, can get infected, and in some cases lead to the amputation of a limb. It always recommended to check your limbs frequently, and tend to scrapes and injuries that may not always present themselves through pain. Poor circulation caused by diabetes can render the same results as diabetic neuropathy.

3. Compare diabetic socks to regular cotton socks. Diabetic socks are designed to keep the foot cool and dry, while promoting circulation. They are made from cotton, nylon, acrylic, and elastic which provides a smooth comfortable fit. On the other hand, regular socks are generally designed to keep the moisture out of your shoes, to avoid unpleasant odors. They often fit very snugly and have seams, which can sometimes cause blisters through friction.

4. Weigh the claims of diabetic sock retailers. With a ton of websites selling diabetic socks, each claiming amazing results about their products, it can become impossible to make a decision. You might find yourself shelling out big bucks, all in the name of your health. Many of these sites discuss new types of synthetic fibers that their diabetic sock is made of, yet they don't go into detail what these fibers are made of. Many sites catering to diabetes tips, suggest choosing a sock that is comfortable, and make no recommendations of purchasing any specific "diabetic sock" at all.

5. Examine scientific research. According to a study done by A. Veves in 1989, it was concluded that thicker socks when worn with the right shoes, lessened the occurrence of foot ulcers. To relieve pressure, he also discovered that high density socks were better than regular socks. As far as moisture is concerned, it was noted that both regular socks and diabetic socks absorbed moisture the same, however, with the thicker padded diabetic socks, moisture was pulled away from the skin due to the extra cushioning, and ultimately being a healthier choice for active diabetics who sweat.

6. Read medical studies. Feldman and Davis did an informal study regarding diabetic socks. It involved 12 doctors and some nurses. The doctors basically said that the most important thing when considering socks, was comfort, and none of them advocated any diabetic retailers. Certified Diabetic Educators said the most important thing regarding their recommendation of socks, was keeping the foot dry. I couldn't find any research proving that any particular sock relieved pain, other than consumer reviews, which cannot be completely reliable, due to companies paying writers for reviews.

7. Become an informed shopper. The bottom line, is if you are suffering from diabetes, and are concerned about the type of sock you should wear, focus on a diabetic sock that is comfortable, has padding, and has little or no seams. If you're just doing every day activities, a regular sock might be fine. If you are going to be doing exercising or participating in activities where you will sweat, you might want to invest in quality acrylic diabetic socks.

Tips & Warnings

• Always check your feet and legs on a regular basis, to make sure you don't have any bruises, cuts, scrapes or ulcers that need to be treated.