People living with diabetes have high blood sugar levels, and prolonged periods of diabetes can damage many body parts. Diabetes is a condition where the body produces insufficient insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps cells absorb the sugar from the blood. With insulin deficiency, the cells can not absorb the sugar from the blood, and the blood sugar level goes up. Poorly managed diabetes causes foot problems like numbness and peripheral vascular disease. Ankle socks protect the feet of people with diabetes and keep them healthy. Those with diabetes should never walk barefoot and always wear smooth socks that do not irritate the skin.
Diabetic socks provide gentle pressure at the ankle and efficiently prevent excess fluid buildup and edema. They support the arch of the feet, minimize injuries to it, improve blood circulation and keep the feet warm and comfortable. The seamless design of the socks prevents blisters and chafing of the skin. The socks have extra padding in the area from toe to heel to reduce the impact of shock and support people to do their work without experiencing any discomfort. Most socks manufacturers use breathable, odor-resistant, and anti-microbial fabrics to keep feet free of bacteria. The socks reduce the pain caused by diabetic neuropathy.
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Common foot problems with diabetes
Table of Contents
Blisters
Wearing shoes that don’t make feet comfortable or wearing them without socks can cause blisters. Friction is the leading cause of blisters. When blisters in the feet of people with diabetes get infected, it can cause severe problems. It causes difficulty in standing and walking.
Corns
Corns are caused by friction or pressure between the toes caused by wearing too-tight shoes. Corns are a buildup of rough and rugged skin near or between the toes. The skin becomes very sensitive and causes much pain while wearing a shoe.
Calluses
Calluses are generally found on the underside of the foot, and they are a buildup of hard skin caused by uneven weight distribution or ill-fitting shoes. Calluses are larger compared to corns and have an irregular shape. Mostly it appears below the heel, ball of the feet, big toe, and along the sides of the foot. Calluses cause sharp shooting pain or dull aching soreness.
Foot ulcers
A foot ulcer is a deep sore caused by minor cuts and scrapes. It rubs against the shoe and doesn’t heal quickly. Foot ulcers are common in people with diabetes, and they should be treated soon before they cause more severe problems.
Athlete’s foot
It is a fungal infection that causes redness, itching, and cracking of the skin. The upper layer of the skin in the foot is infected. It is usually found between the toes and causes burning, itching, and redness. This infection occurs only when the skin is warm and moist.
People with diabetes should take care of their feet and protect them from foot problems. The problems need to be treated before they become a challenge to treat. Diabetes causes low blood circulation, making it difficult for wounds and infections in the feet to heal quickly. Ankle socks cover the feet, protect them and offer comfort to the person wearing them.
In diabetes, foot ulcers and infections go unnoticed because of neuropathy and numbness. People must care for their feet to prevent serious foot problems leading to amputation. Wearing the proper footwear and socks helps people keep their feet problem-free and lead an active life. Caring for the feet, wearing comfortable socks, and going to the doctor are the best things to maintain healthy feet.
Ankle socks are available in various designs and sizes. They are breathable, durable, and do not irritate the skin. They support the arch of the feet and distribute the weight evenly, which helps in preventing corns and calluses. They are soft, non-binding, and keep the feet comfortable throughout the day.
