Can diabetic socks help with swollen feet

Swelling is joint after consuming salty foods and sitting for an extended period. Hormonal changes might also cause edema in some people, yet they aren't the sole reasons for swelling. If you have diabetes, you may also be experiencing swollen legs and ankles. Diabetes can impair blood flow and lead to the accumulation of fluid in the lower extremities. This buildup can result in swelling in the feet, ankles, and lower legs.

Edema is the medical term for excessive swelling of the feet and ankles caused by fluid retention in the tissues. Edema can develop everywhere on the body, but it tends to be more noticeable in the extremities, especially the feet and ankles. Gravity causes blood to pool and requires healthy circulation to move the blood.

Symptoms of swollen feet on diabetes

The primary symptom of edema is swelling in the affected area, as well as:

• Stretched or shiny skin
• Swelling or puffiness
• Skin that pits (remains indented) when you press it
• Swelling that stays firm and doesn't pit

Other symptoms that can be observed, along with swelling, like:

• Gaining weight
• Painful limbs
• Stiff joints
• Skin discoloration
• Foot pain or a loss of sensitivity
• You experience heavy, difficult-to-move feet.

You can control diabetes-related swollen ankles by making better lifestyle choices and even avoiding it entirely. Additionally, several therapeutic and medical practices can aid in the management and avoidance of edema brought on by diabetes. One of the most popular methods of managing swollen feet nowadays is diabetic socks. 

Features of diabetic socks

Diabetic socks are available at retail stores, pharmacies, and online retailers. When purchasing diabetic socks, consider the following characteristics:

• Moisture-wicking material. You should wear socks composed of acrylic fibers to help your feet stay dry and wick away moisture. This reduces the chance of fungus infections and avoids odors—the drier the foot, the more protection from developing blisters and other sores.

• Zero seams. Socks made without toe seams can reduce rubbing and minimize the risk of blisters at the toes, which can lead to ulcers.  

• No top elastic. Socks for people with diabetes are made without full elasticity because they can obstruct blood flow to the feet and reduce circulation. The calves of those with diabetes are not squeezed by their socks, reducing blood flow.

• Padded soles. Padded soles are a feature of diabetic socks that increase comfort and cushioning. These soles are frequently made of white fabric so that blood from a wound or damage can be easily seen even though it cannot be felt. These soles could be constructed from extra-thick material, gel, silicone inserts, or both.

• Antimicrobial properties. When injury combines with bacteria and moisture, it can pose a severe risk to those with diabetes. Many diabetic socks are made with copper or silver-infused yarn to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. These socks are not only odor-free but also antibacterial. Copper-infused socks may also prevent an athlete's foot from spreading.

• Soft yarn. Socks composed of soft yarns, such as wool or bamboo, are readily available. These socks are gentle on the skin and help protect your feet from friction blisters. They won't likely scratch the skin when used on it. 

• Wrinkle-free. Diabetic socks don't have any excess fabric, so they don't wrinkle and cause less discomfort. They do not form lumps even when worn out or stretched out.

• Length. The lengths of diabetic socks range from the ankle to the knee. While other sizes are suitable for daily usage, the higher length is best for people with circulatory problems.

Can diabetic socks help with swollen feet?

Regular socks lack certain design elements present in diabetic socks that protect the diabetic foot from further complications and help keep it pleasant and healthy.

One of the symptoms of diabetes is foot swelling. These socks fit well to avoid constraints in the calf from a tight sock line that can restrict circulation since this chronic problem impairs your blood circulation and causes fluid to build up in your lower extremities. By supporting the veins and preventing fluid backlog, they improve circulation.

Unlike conventional socks, which may cause mild constriction and occasionally leave marks on your feet when worn, diabetic socks do not restrict your feet. It may be challenging to keep your feet warm if your blood flow is compromised. You can avoid having your toes feel cold by wearing diabetic socks. It would be best if you had a proper-fitting pair of socks that won't stifle your feet's natural circulation to increase it.

In addition, diabetic socks help with the other signs of swollen feet by:

Keeping your feet dry. It can be challenging to keep your feet dry in regular socks, but diabetes socks are composed of a fabric that helps wick moisture away, keeping your feet dry all day. Your foot's capacity to heal minor scrapes or blisters is significantly impacted by the humidity that comes with a long day of wearing regular socks, putting you at risk of severe infections. Bamboo, elastic, lycra, cotton, nylon, and viscose are standard fabrics for diabetes socks and are beautiful choices for keeping your feet dry.

Protects your feet from injury. Diabetic socks are usually made with cushioning to protect your feet. Occasionally, extra padding and protection are added to the balls of your feet and other regions where blisters are present. It will keep your feet comfortable. Additionally, it is seamless to prevent rubbing on your feet. This is beneficial since people with diabetes can experience sensory loss, which increases the chance of them not realizing they have been hurt or have stepped on something sharp.

Diabetic socks are essential for foot care.

If you have diabetes, inspect your feet daily for sores, hot spots, rubbing regions, or wounds. You can significantly lower your chance of getting a foot ulcer and increase circulation at the same time by wearing diabetic socks.

Anyone with diabetes has to wear diabetic socks as part of proper foot care. Even though swelling may feel tolerable, discussing it with your healthcare professional is still essential. Swelling in your lower legs or feet shouldn't be disregarded because it may signal the onset of a dangerous medical issue, such as diabetes, as mentioned.