by Carrie Belt

Created on: June 09, 2009

One of the most disrupting consequences of diabetes is a gradual loss of feeling in the extremities, including the feet. This loss of feeling, also known as neuropathy, is caused when the body does not get enough blood circulating to certain parts, including the hands and feet. As a result of the poor circulation, many diabetics have cold extremities, such as cold feet and cold hands. Moreover, poor circulation can lead to a loss of sensation in the extremities, which can lead to limited mobility and an increase in injuries.

There are several things that diabetics can do in order to combat the negative side effects of poor circulation. Here are a few products that may work wonders for diabetics suffering from these common issues:

Diabetic shoes

Diabetic shoes are designed to be very smooth on the inside with a comfortable heel, arch, and toe box. Because many diabetics are unable to actually feel pain in their feet, they may not be aware of tight-fitting shoes or of areas in their shoes that rub against the skin, causing cuts and blisters. Diabetic shoes help diabetics to better manage their foot care by providing a safe surface into which the diabetic can put his or her feet with minimal risk of blistering and cramping.

Support Socks

Support socks help diabetics to maintain proper blood flow throughout their feet. Support socks are manufactured in such a way that they compress the calf and stimulate blood flow without cutting off circulation to the feet. They are also designed to wick moisture away from the skin so that skin does not become raw and more prone to blistering. Diabetic socks come in all colors and often look like a regular pair of dress socks or athletic socks. Both men and women can buy support socks as well.

Support Hose

Many women enjoy wearing diabetic support hose in all seasons. Support hose are designed to promote proper blood circulation throughout the feet and legs without restricting blood flow, as some non-diabetic hose may. By gently compressing the leg, these support hose also prevent swelling throughout the legs. Diabetic support hose look and feel like regular hose and can come in many different sizes, colors, and textures.

Always have your feet and legs measured by a professional when buying diabetic socks, diabetic shoes, and diabetic support hose for the first time or after a weight change. Having the right fit goes a long way to ensuring that diabetic support socks, diabetic shoes, and diabetic support hose work properly.

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