The Complete Guide to Diabetic Compression Socks: Benefits, Uses, and Myths
What are diabetic compression socks?
A pair of diabetic compression socks is a thin, absorbent tube of material that is worn around the leg, waist, and foot. It covers the back of your knee and aids with blood flow in areas of the leg that may be difficult to treat without using them.Diabetic compression socks are used in a range of conditions, from neuropathy to bunions. They can also be used in conjunction with the insulin pump.While compression socks are not specifically created for diabetes, they are one of the most common types of diabetes supplies and many diabetics find them beneficial.
Why wear diabetic compression socks?
After removing shoes, the feet take a beating. Regular wearing of footwear without proper foot protection can cause stress and other damage to the feet. Even when properly-sized shoes are worn, the feet are often subjected to a variety of daily wear, including:
chafing from socks rubbing against skin
scratches and cuts from dry surfaces
overheating from tight shoes or boots
walking on non-cushioned surfaces, such as the beach, or taking long walks
having to use the toilet frequently
excessive sweating from circulation issues
constant walking, like at work or on a day hike
constant sweating from hyperthermia
When you stop wearing shoes, it’s especially important to take care of your feet, as they can get a severe pounding.
Types of compression socks
There are three main types of diabetic compression socks:
Regular compression socks: Regular compression socks are what you put on before a run, then take off after. These socks are meant to help your circulation while helping your feet retain moisture, preventing infections. If you are wearing regular compression socks during a long run, you are almost certain to get a good runner’s high.
Black compression socks
Compression socks come in different colors to match a person’s outfit. They are usually black or red and often feature an athletic or athletic style. Black compression socks are suitable for athletes who don’t want to look like they have leg braces. This is because they are perceived as “more sporty”.Black compression socks are also handy for anyone who wants to conceal any visible injury, especially from falls.
Red compression socks
Red compression socks are for people who have diabetes and need to be discreet, such as runners and cyclists. Some people also wear red compression socks for team sport and baseball and other popular sporting events.
Knee-high compression socks
Knee-high compression socks are one of the most popular and well-known types of diabetic compression socks.Knee-high compression socks are the most commonly seen type, often worn by diabetics in general to reduce swelling, which makes feet look smaller and smaller as time goes on.However, despite the comfort these socks provide, there are some important factors to consider when choosing your sock.
Consider the type of activity you do: Knee-highs are designed for walking, jogging, and cycling.The ribbed hem ensures blood doesn’t pool in the sock, allowing your feet to breathe.However, they are not suitable for activities where you need extra support like horseback riding and tennis.
Myths about diabetic compression socks
Here are the 10 most common diabetes-related diabetes myths and the facts behind them.
Diabetic compression socks are only worn to treat diabetic neuropathy,while it’s true that diabetic compression socks can help foot problems that come with diabetes, they can also help prevent diabetic foot ulcers, gout, bunions, etc.
Tips for buying diabetic compression socks
The important thing to look for is that the sock will conform to your foot and will not fall down or feel uncomfortable. If you have a wide foot like a basketball or a soccer ball, you’ll want to go with a longer sock that wraps around the arch, while if you have a narrow foot like a high heel or a tennis shoe, you’ll want a shorter sock that hits just at the ball of your foot.
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