People with diabetes are prone to having foot issues; hence, they should pay special care to their feet. Wearing the right socks and shoes as it can help with their quality of life. The blood circulation to the feet are often affected in diabetes and may cause edema (swollen legs and feet). In poorly controlled diabetes, patients may also experience blockage of the arteries by scar tissue or fat deposits (atherosclerosis). This leads to a condition called peripheral arterial disease.
Diabetics have 2 to 4 times the risk of having peripheral arterial disease compared to those without diabetes. The poor blood flow also increases the risk for foot ulcers and causes poor wound healing. This may lead to the amputation of the foot or leg.
Diabetics also run a higher risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) as high blood glucose can lead to dehydration that thickens the blood. In turn, this condition can increase the risk of developing a blood clot. Research has also shown that compression socks can help prevent the development of DVT.
With the right protection, such as appropriate socks and shoes, people with diabetes can improve their circulation and protect their feet from injury or infection. Studies have shown that the use of compression socks can be beneficial for diabetics. Compression socks are tight fitting socks that squeeze the feet and legs, which help to reduce the edema that is present in the calves and feet.
Compression socks are available in all sizes, colors, patterns, and different materials. The patient should, however, choose a proper fit of compression socks that do not cause any wrinkles or bunching as it may irritate the skin. Putting on the compression socks may be a challenge for patients and may lead to non-compliance.
Patients can wear the compression socks in the morning when the feet and legs are less swollen. They should be worn all day and only taken off at night. For the best fit, compression socks need to feel the tightest around the ankles and less tight as they move upwards. Some patients also use baby powder or cornstarch to help to put on the compression socks.
Although compression socks have been found to be beneficial for diabetics, those with severe arterial insufficiency (poor blood supply to the feet) may not be suitable for compression socks. If patients experience discomfort when wearing compression socks, it is best to remove them and consult the doctor.
[expand title=”References“]
When diabetic patients need compression socks. SIGVARIS. Accessed 3/1/2017.
Spero D. The right socks for diabetes. Diabetes Self-Management. Accessed 3/1/2017.
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