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Socks are an important but seldom thought of daily part of people's lives. Diabetics, more than any other, for their health rely on socks. Diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, cause a dangerous duo of problems for diabetics over time, and the the results can be combated with socks. Diabetes causes two syndromes known as diabetic neuropathy and atherosclerosis. These two syndromes together can cause major complications for diabetics, particularly their feet.
Diabetic neuropathy is caused by damage to nerves by the high blood sugar levels that a diabetic experiences. This usually shows itself through gradual lessening of sensation in the extremities, particularly the feet and lower legs. This is dangerous for a diabetic because it can prevent them from knowing they have injured themselves, as they cannot feel the pain of the injury, or often even that they have struck themselves or stepped on something that damaged their skin.
Atherosclerosis does not just occur in diabetics, but it is a common part of the diabetic disease progression. Damage to the blood vessels cause deposits of cholesterol and other substances, which stiffen and narrow the arteries. The narrowing of the arteries in turn reduces the circulation downstream. In the feet and lower leg this means that healing and the ability to fight infection are compromised. This is a very dangerous combination, as small injuries that would be totally insignificant to a healthy individual linger and become infected in a diabetic with atherosclerosis. This is only aggravated by the increased blood sugar levels of a diabetic.
The question could be asked how this relates to socks. Diabetes progresses with neuropathy making wounds silent and atherosclerosis making wounds linger and prone to infections. This is a potent and serious combination, because getting even small and normally insignificant wounds healed up can be a lengthy ordeal. The daily foot care regiment as a result should consist of a foot inspection, and the use of diabetic socks. Diabetes complications encouraged sock manufacturers to design socks that were well padded everywhere, but particularly on the bottom of the foot. The socks are given an antimicrobial treatment, and woven so they won't bind up or constrict the blood flow. The fibers that the socks are made with are specially selected for their moisture wicking properties. This helps to keep skin from softening (pruning up) which helps keep it from blistering or tearing.
These same properties make this type of sock suitable for outdoors-men. Hunters and fisherman have similar needs as diabetics in their socks. Diabetics have different reasons for needing these properties, but the moisture wicking, antimicrobial, and padded qualities of these socks make them wonderful additions to the wardrobe of an outdoorsman.
Always consult your physician before wearing diabetic socks. Dr. Scholl’s socks are not intended to cure or treat any ailment or disease but are constructed to provide comfort to everyday life.
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