It may sound silly, but diabetics frequently need diabetic socks to keep their feet healthy.

Why Would I Ever Need Diabetic Socks?

You would need diabetic socks if you have diabetes. Diabetic socks are literally socks that are worn by diabetics.

One side effect of diabetes is loss of feeling in the feet. While this may not seem like a big deal, to diabetics it is. When a person loses feeling in their feet, they have a hard time knowing when their feet are hot or cold or if they have a blister or other wound on their foot. When these types of wounds go untreated, they can turn into ulcers or other massive infections. Sometimes when these infections are left to fester, the person may develop gangrene and have to have their foot or leg amputated.

Finding the Right Socks

Diabetic socks aren't like your average sweat socks. Diabetic socks include extra padding, cushion and ventilation to help keep the feet healthy. The extra padding prevents blisters and ulcers from forming because it prevents aggravating friction between the sock and skin. The ventilation system helps keep the feet dry. A wet foot can cause bacteria and other unwanted fungus to form. Diabetic socks are typically constructed in such a way that the toe seam doesn't irritate the toes.

Diabetic socks are frequently made with acrylic yarn. This is a very comfortable, friendly yarn that provides plenty of cushion. Your diabetic socks may also include an antimicrobial finish to prevent fungus from collecting on the foot.

You can find diabetic socks at some health specialty stores. You can also find them on-line. This is perhaps the easiest place to purchase your diabetic socks. These sites give you a brief run down on the socks inducing their benefits, cost and size chart. They also a variety of socks allowing you to choose socks that best fit your needs.

Diabetic socks are extremely effective at helping diabetics keep their feet in good health. If you're diabetic, you should consider getting diabetic socks especially if you can't feel your feet.