Do Diabetic Shoes and Socks Actually Help?
It’s been our observation that many people are nervous or hesitant about switching to diabetic shoes and socks in their day-to-day lives. Part of it is not wanting to “give up” shopping for whatever fashionable shoes or socks, and fear that the new footwear will stick out like a sore thumb. But there’s also a lot of skepticism about whether or not diabetic footwear actually does anything. Your feet may have held up just so far, after all. Do you really need them?
The problem with that line of thinking is that there’s always a first time—and in the case of diabetic foot ulcers, one time might be more than enough to force a lengthy recovery or even an amputation. (That’s if you don’t seek treatment right away, of course.)
The truth is that diabetic shoes and socks can significantly reduce the risk of serious damage, injury, and ulceration in your feet, especially for those with a history of foot problems or neuropathy. And they also come in great colors and styles these days—trust us, you don’t have to give up on fashion just because you have diabetes!
Diabetic socks are typically made from materials that offer both moisture-wicking and anti-microbial properties, which help keep your skin dry and protected from bacterial or fungal infections. (That’s definitely a plus in a muggy environment like ours!) Other common foot-healthy features include wrinkle resistance and a lack of seams (to avoid cuts and abrasions), a looser fit, and even extra padding for your sole.
Diabetic shoes offer additional features. Like diabetic socks, they are usually made from breathable fabrics and lack interior seams, which keep feet dry and reduce the risk of skin ulceration. They also offer a little extra room and depth for a removable cushioned insole or custom orthotic, should you need them. A properly fitted diabetic shoe should be comfortable, reduce both vertical (shock) and side-to-side (shear) pressure on the feet, and provide ample cushioning and support for high-risk spots.
If you have diabetes, and especially if you have any history of sensation loss, foot deformities, or previous skin infections or injuries, a good set of diabetic shoes and socks can save you a lot of pain and problems—some with potentially lifelong consequences. So stop on down to one of our offices and we’ll help you find one with the features you need and a style you’ll love!
Just call us at whichever location is more convenient for you: Metairie at (504) 708-4810, or Covington at (985) 809-1464.