There are important differences to note when choosing one over the other. We’ll take a moment to outline the differences and provide guidance on selecting the best socks for your needs. However, there are many kinds of socks that can improve your overall foot health. You might have received recommendations from your family physician, friend, family member, or co-worker to wear either of these specialty socks.
Diabetic socks are specialty socks designed with features that are especially important for individuals with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. They are available off-the-shelf in different lengths, ranging from low-rise to the full length of the calf, depending on personal preference. These socks have seamless toe areas to reduce friction or irritation around sensitive toes, thus reducing the risk of blistering the skin. This feature is crucial for individuals with diminished sensation or numbness in their feet since you might not be able to feel if something is rubbing against them throughout the day. To further reduce pressure, diabetic socks are knit with minimal to no compression around the ankle to prevent digging into the leg during periods of mild swelling. Many people wear socks that are too tight, leaving creases on their ankles that can irritate sensitive skin.
Lastly, quality diabetic socks should wick away moisture to keep the skin dry throughout the day. Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot wounds and experience complications from those wounds. For these reasons, individuals with diabetes should avoid walking or standing barefoot and, at minimum, prioritize wearing diabetic socks to maintain happy and healthy feet!
Compression socks (or stockings) serve different purposes and are best suited for managing uncomfortable swelling or painful varicose veins in the feet, ankles, and legs. Your body relies on your veins to return blood back towards your heart, and this can be challenging for blood traveling from your feet and legs against gravity. Some individuals may have impaired vein function due to underlying medication conditions or pregnancy, leading to swelling over the course of the day and development of varicose veins over time. Compression stockings are intentionally snug to help with circulation and aid the veins and lymphatic system in returning fluid back toward your upper body. These socks are typically tightest around your ankles and gradually decrease in compression strength as they move up the leg, promoting fluid circulation toward the heart.
To best suit your needs, compression stockings are available in a wide selection of materials, various lengths (from below the knee to above the hips/waist), and are knit in different compression strengths to provide the necessary support. Some compression stockings are available over-the-counter and do not require a prescription. However, many are medical-grade and are often prescribed by a physician or vascular specialist to treat your concerns. The best way to choose these stockings is with the assistance of a certified compression fitter who can take measurements of your legs to determine the most suitable size for these ready-to-wear garments. For more complex swelling or measurements, custom-made compression stockings are also available to ensure optimal comfort and function.
It is important to note that individuals with well-managed diabetes can also use compression stockings when needed. There are select styles of compression stockings that are diabeticfriendly and include the same features that are unique to diabetic socks such as seamless toe areas, moisture-wicking yarns, and a wide top band to reduce constriction at the top of the garment.
If you or someone you know is dealing with swelling in their feet or legs, has been diagnosed with diabetes, or struggles with finding comfortable socks, we are here to help! Contact your local BioPed clinic today to schedule an appointment with a certified compression fitter who can answer your questions about specialty socks and to help you choose the right products for your unique needs!
