What Are Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are specialized elastic hosiery that are worn around the leg, compressing the limb. They help prevent and guard against progression of thrombosis , edema , venous insufficiency , and phlebitis . These are all venous disorders.
Venous disease and diabetes are frequently correlated with each other, and neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that can further aggravate venous disorders. Compression stockings will definitely aid a person with diabetes who is experiencing symptoms of venous disease and diabetic neuropathy.
I personally recommend a properly fitted compression stocking for a person with diabetes, especially if they are experiencing diabetic neuropathy or any type of venous disease. People with diabetes who are on their feet for long hours during the day will benefit, as well.
Contrary to the compression socks and stockings that you can order online or purchase in a department store, medical grade compression stockings are found at a mastectomy and compression shop. These devices are often covered through your insurance, and they come in multiple compression support levels.
They are medically certified by the NIH . These specific stockings have specific pressure assigned to the stockings. Store boughten compression stockings are not required to have specific measurements of strength, as it not regulated.
Compression Socks To Bed When Pregnant
During pregnancy, your lower legs may swell from excess fluid or reduced circulation. Wearing compression socks to bed during pregnancy helps alleviate both of these concerns. According to the pregnancy experts at What to Expect, swelling in the foot, ankle, and lower leg may begin around week 27 of pregnancy. Do not wait until your legs begin to swell to use compression socks. You can start wearing compression socks overnight to help reduce muscle cramps that often accompany pregnancy, and to support muscle restoration as your legs adjust to carrying around the weight of the baby.
The Benefits Of Compression Socks For People With Diabetes
Your diabetes care provider may prescribe compression socks to help prevent swelling, which, if left untreated, could increase your risk for foot infections. Compression socks are hosiery that provides compression on the lower extremities your feet, ankles, and legs in order to control swelling and other issues, says , a doctor of podiatric medicine and a board-certified surgical podiatrist at InStride Chapel Hill Foot and Ankle Associates in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
If youre thinking about buying compression socks for your feet, consider this a guide to help you pick the best pair to meet your needs and desired price point.
First, heres a look at the different types of compression socks available:
1. Prescription-Strength Compression Socks
A prescription should include the strength, a term used to describe the amount of compression in the socks, which is measured as millimeters of mercury . Andersen says that the prescription should also note the recommended length of the socks: below-the-knee socks, thigh-high hose, or full-length panty hose. Thats why youll often hear them referred to as compression hose, not just compression socks, by your provider and in the rest of this article.
2. Over-the-Counter Compression Socks
People with diabetes might find these light-compression socks helpful to prevent mild swelling, Kemmis says.
3. Compression Socks With Diabetes-Specific Features
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What Do Diabetic Socks Do
Diabetic socks are simply socks made to guard your feet. They’re designed with protective features, such as:
- Thicker material and more cushioning at the heel and ball of your foot. The thicker material can help reduce pressure on areas of your feet that bear a lot of weight. The extra padding can help protect your feet from injury to the skin if a small rock gets into your shoe, for instance.
- Moisture-wicking fabric. Sweat- or moisture-wicking material pulls moisture away from your feet and onto the outer layer of the socks. This helps keep your feet dry, decreasing the chance of infections. Moisture-wicking technology can also keep your feet from getting cold if you’re in cold weather.
- Light colors. A white or light-colored sock call allow you to easily see if you’re bleeding or have a draining wound on your feet.
- Seamless toes. Seams can irritate the skin, leading to blisters and wounds. Many diabetic socks don’t contain seams or have “non-irritating” seams.
- Non-elastic fibers. Regular socks contain elastic to help them stay in place, but this design can further constrict blood flow for people with diabetes. Your sock may be considered too tight if you see a line on your skin after you remove it. Diabetic socks are often made without elastic.
Is Sleeping With Socks On Good For You
Its common knowledge that the human body temperature stays at roughly 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. But that temperature is dynamic and changes throughout the day, depending on the weather and activities you may be involved in.
The process of changes in body temperature is called thermoregulation, the ability to keep the body temperature within certain boundaries, even when the surrounding temperature is very different.
Dont worry. Were getting to the socks part of the story.
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Take Precautions Such As:
- Getting compression socks or stockings that fit you properly
- Making sure you are putting your compression socks on and taking them off correctly
- Checking to see if the socks are causing more of an Infection
- Checking to see if you are allergic to the material
- Do not fold the top of the stocking down
- Make sure to not snag toenails, jewelry, or fingernails on the stockings
- If you have a run in the stockings, they will likely need to be replaced
Will Diabetic Socks Prevent Me From Getting Diabetic Foot
Whilst a good choice of socks doesnt guarantee that you wont get diabetic foot complications, it can help to reduce the risks.
Choosing shoes that fit well, keeping blood glucose levels under control and ensuring you check your feet for signs of damage or changes will each also help to improve your chances of avoiding foot complications.
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Orthosleeve Wc4 Light Gradient Compression Neuropathy Socks
Orthosleeve WC4 Wellness socks for diabetes and neuropathy are different from the two first ones in that they provide a light gradient compression, as well as fitting support. They still have a non-constricting top thats crucial for neuropathy, but theyre a bit more supportive than the previous loose-fit ones. Theyre anatomically designed for the right and left foot and have special shaped toe and heel pockets for proper foot placement.
Theyre crafted in silver-infused nano-bamboo charcoal fibers for great moisture management and anti-bacterial properties. The sock interior is seam-free and the contour of the foot is fully padded.
A great choice for people with neuropathy who need a bit of extra foot support! Available in all men and women sizes, as well as plenty of colors!
- Seamless toe
Why Its Important To Protect Your Feet If You Have Diabetes
Foot problems are more common in people with diabetes than in those without the disease. Thats because you can have damage to blood vessels in your legs and feet, which can affect circulation, promote swelling, and increase your risk for infection, among causing other diabetes complications.
Each year, you should aim to have your feet examined by your diabetes care provider and, if you are aware that you have foot problems, by a diabetes specialist, such as a podiatrist. A foot exam typically includes a visual check of your feet for swelling or signs of infection, as well as tests that measure your level of sensation.
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What Is The Latest Time A Diabetic Should Eat
The latest time a diabetic should eat is about two hours before bedtime. Be sure not to eat too close to bedtime as this may cause a spike in blood sugar levels and disrupt sleep patterns. It’s best to have a light snack for about 30 minutes before bedtime, such as those described above to give you a healthful boost.
What Socks To Wear
Socks made of natural soft fibers such as merino wool or cashmere are best. They usually cost more than cotton or artificial fiber socks, but they are well worth the extra money. Make sure the socks you choose are not tight-fitting, which might constrict circulation and hinder proper warming of your feet.
The one downside to wearing socks while you sleep is overheating. If you do overheat or feel too hot, kick off your socks or leave your feet outside your blanket.
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Trim Your Toenails And Clean Your Feet Regularly
Well, this one is simple: take care of your toenails and wash your feet daily even if its just a quick rinse under the bathroom faucet.
Neglected and overgrown toenails can become ingrown, and create extra rubbing and irritation in your shoes. They also might make it more difficult to spot small cuts or blisters near the ends of your toes.
If you cant comfortably reach your feet, ask a loved one, your healthcare team during your routine appointments, or visit a nail spa for assistance.
It may feel embarrassing but its part of saving your feet from the risk of amputation.
Should I Wear A Particular Type Of Compression Sock For Sleep
Sports scientists and medical professionals recommend wearing compression socks with a compression rating of 15 mmHg or lower. However, most sports compression socks give 15-22 mmHg of compression or 20-30mmHg of compression. Therefore, it is recommended that athletes do not wear their sports compression socks while in bed, but wear specially designed lower compression socks of 15 mmHg or less.
In present-day prescription, compression socks are utilized to counteract and limit edema from veins that arrival deoxygenated blood to the heart, which happen in some ailments . They are likewise used to keep blood from stagnating in the veins and framing blood clusters when the muscles are not effectively contracting to push blood through the veins and back to the heart.
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Smooth Corns And Calluses Gently
Thick patches of skin called corns or calluses can grow on the feet. If you have corns or calluses, talk with your foot doctor about the best way to care for these foot problems. If you have nerve damage, these patches can become ulcers.
If your doctor tells you to, use a pumice stone to smooth corns and calluses after bathing or showering. A pumice stone is a type of rock used to smooth the skin. Rub gently, only in one direction, to avoid tearing the skin.
Do NOT
- use corn plasters, which are medicated pads
- use liquid corn and callus removers
Cutting and over-the counter corn removal products can damage your skin and cause an infection.
To keep your skin smooth and soft, rub a thin coat of lotion, cream, or petroleum jelly on the tops and bottoms of your feet. Do not put lotion or cream between your toes because moistness might cause an infection.
Caring For Your Socks
Most people are advised not to go barefoot and to wear diabetic socks daily. With frequent wear and washing, your socks may need special care. Most socks last around six months with proper care.
To care for your socks, wash them in a mesh laundry bag and either let them air dry or dry on low heat. Remove any pilled fabric and replace your socks at the first sign of wear. Check your socks regularly for any holes or rips and dispose of them when this occurs.
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How Do Glucose Levels Change Overnight
As you sleep, your body is still working to regulate the fluctuations in your blood sugar levels from the day before.
The reason for this change in your blood sugar levels is the Somogyi effect which happens when someone with diabetes has too much insulin and it drops during sleep. The person also wakes up with higher blood sugar levels because of this phenomenon. Another reason is the Dawn phenomenon where people experience an increase in their blood sugar levels around the time that they wake up on any given morning. Eating your bedtime snack which can help regulate these changes and prevent too much fluctuation throughout the day and into the mornings.
Here are some tips for ensuring you have a restful night and don’t wake up feeling groggy-eat meals with healthy carbs at dinner time, eat a light snack before bedtime, or try to turn off electronics around two hours before bedtime.
Characteristics Of Compression Socks And Stockings
Compression socks we now know come in various styles, types and have multiple levels of pressure. They can also have numerous characteristics that can complement any condition or situation that the individual needs. These conditions include being seamless, breathable, moisture-wicking, warm, square-toed, fitted, and padded.
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What Is Compression And How Does It Work
Compression promotes better health by aiding your body in better circulation. Your blood is pumped by the heart throughout your entire body, and back to your heart again. Once the blood has reached your feet and legs, your body is naturally going against gravity to try to move that blood back up to the heart. Compression applies pressure at specific points to help move the blood back up to the heart. You may be familiar with common poor circulation problems such as cold feet, varicose veins, or more serious conditions. Compression helps relieve these symptoms and prevent them from worsening by improving your circulation. When buying compression, make sure that it is graduated medical grade compression so you are getting the most benefits. Graduated compression socks apply the most amount of compression at the ankle and gradually decrease as it moves up the leg. This helps the blood flow back up to your heart for better circulation. Improved circulation can also relieve tired and achy legs, soreness in your legs and feet, prevent against varicose and spider veins, and more serious vein conditions.
The Right Time To Wear Diabetic Socks
Diabetic socks provide additional safety for the feet of those patients who suffer from sensitive conditions. The appropriate time to wear diabetic socks is from the time you get out of bed in the morning till the time you turn in for the night.
The more you protect your feet with diabetic socks and keep them less barefooted, the lesser the chances of injuring your feet accidentally. Bare feet are more vulnerable to fatal injuries from accidental stepping or knocking against things. Diabetic socks, therefore, protect your feet from the friction of the soles against the floor surface as well as regulate circulation by maintaining optimal temperature.
One cannot stress enough upon the importance of wearing socks as much as possible, but equally important is to maintain the hygiene factor. You must ensure you change your socks often during the day, as you see fit.
If you especially like to indulge in sports during the day, you must remove the pair, clean your feet of moisture and sweat properly, and then put on a clean pair after the activity. You can find many diabetic patients who make it a regular practice to change their socks for each task they perform throughout the day. Perhaps categorizing your pairs as work socks, house-chores socks, sports, etc. would be helpful.
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If Not Cotton Find The Right Fabric For You
If wearing cotton jammies or wearing nothing at all doesn’t align with your pajama personality, there are other options that can be beneficial to your health and still help you achieve a good night’s sleep. For example, if you’re looking to wear something more on the sexy, sultry, and ultra-luxurious side, silk pajamas are a clear choice. Some benefits of silk include helping to regulate your body’s temperature throughout the night as well as being smooth and soft against your skin. However, if you’re interested in a different nighttime look and feel, bamboo fabric pajamas may be just what you need to sleep well. In fact, bamboo is more absorbent than cotton, soft to the touch, and is even hypoallergenic. And if that’s not intriguing enough, research has shown that bamboo fabric contains anti-microbial properties. With this in mind, it’s no wonder that there are many different bamboo fabric products on the market today, including pajamas, sheets, and pillows. But if bamboo doesn’t do it for you, opting for the classic flannel fabric pajamas can be a warm and cozy option, especially during the fall and winter. It’s truly up to you to decide what fabric you’d like to weave into your nightly routine.
Diabetic Socks Are Essential Foot Care
If you have diabetes, you should get in the habit of checking your feet every day for , hot spots, areas of rubbing, or injury. By wearing diabetic socks, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing a foot ulcer, while improving circulation at the same time. Diabetic socks represent an essential aspect of foot care for anyone with diabetes.
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Diabetic Socks Can Prevent Amputations
For diabetics, amputations are typically due to a collection of tissue infections and poor blood circulations. The culprit is due to diabetic neuropathies that significantly decrease the awareness of foot injuries. When left untreated, unknown minor injuries and foot ulcers can develop into serious infections that eventually affect the bone and then the whole foot. When too much tissues and blood vessels are infected, amputation of the affected limb is the only option.
According to the American Diabetes Association, in 2010 nearly 73,000 non-traumatic lower-limb amputations occurred in diabetics aged 20 years old or older. This was about 60% of the total non-traumatic lower-limb amputations in this age group. In the United States, more than 90% of the performed amputations are due to circulations issues from diabetes with 60-80% of these being lower leg or foot amputations.
To avoid amputations, the best method is to prevent foot ulcers and injuries from happening in the first place. Aside from your usual diabetes regimen and proper foot care, your footwear plays an essential role to keep your diabetes symptoms in check. Although the health care system has not included diabetic socks as necessities for diabetes patients, you should still explore whether diabetic socks will help you to maintain an active lifestyle.