There are so many uses for socks in the healthcare industry, it can be hard to distinguish which ones you might benefit from.
While you should also take recommendations from your doctor or a medical professional, we’ve outlined the differences between diabetic socks and compression socks to make your shopping experience a little bit easier.
Diabetic socks vs. compression socks
Diabetic socks are typically loose-fitting and are designed to protect your feet from moisture, added pressure and injuries, such as blisters and sores.
Compression socks are snug-fitting and are designed to lessen fluid buildup and prevent blood from pooling in the lower legs and feet in those with circulation problems.
Diabetic socks
Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to foot problems like diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), which can cause you to lose the ability to feel pain, heat or cold in your feet. They can also affect the blood vessels and cause circulation problems, which can prevent cuts and sores from healing properly.
Luckily, diabetic socks can help you live confidently without foot problems getting in the way. Diabetic socks are comfortable, loose-fitting, non-binding socks that are designed to protect your feet.
Diabetic socks should be seamless, non-elastic and moisture-wicking so you can keep your feet dry (prevents bacteria growth!). They also feature extra padding for sensitive foot areas to reduce pressure on your feet. Many diabetic socks are sold in the color white only - this is so that you can easily identify an injury or cut on your foot if you're starting to loose feeling in your feet. White fabric will immediately show if there's a problem.
Compression socks
Compression socks are typically recommended to those who have diabetes and circulation problems that cause swelling in the feet and legs.
Compression socks help alleviate discomfort and increase circulation to keep blood from pooling in your feet and legs. Diabetic compression stockings have mild to moderate graduated compression, meaning the strongest support of the garment is at the ankles, and gradually decreased towards the top (closest to the knee). For most diabetic patients, compression stockings are used mostly as a preventative measure for comfort.
Benefits of compression socks for diabetics
There are several benefits to wearing compression socks for diabetes.
- Promote proper circulation
- Prevent blood clots (DVT)
- Reduce swelling
- Protect feet from sores, blisters, infections
Pro Tip: Put your compression socks on right when you get up in the morning before your feet and legs start to swell and take them off before you go to bed.
Learn more about the benefits of compression socks for diabetics here.
Whether you need loose-fitting diabetic socks or snug-fitting compression socks, make sure your feet are healthy!