Best Diabetic Socks – Reviews 2020 (Our Top Picks – Updated)

Proper foot care is essential to prevent illness, injury, and potential nerve damage in your feet and ankles. As a diabetic, taking care of your feet may be more vital than for most people. The best diabetic socks can help you to feel your feet better, improve your pedal health, and make life a little bit better without pain and swelling.

Your feet may be more sensitive to moisture and pressure that can cause harm to your feet over time and reduce your ability to feel pains and potential conditions on the soles of your feet. Diabetic socks are made from carefully chosen non-elastic, seamless materials designed to wick away moisture and prevent any restriction on circulation through your feet and ankles.

Balancing these needs with comfort and foot support can be tricky business, so there are many potential options from which you can choose the best socks to fit your needs. Keep in mind your personal preferences and any medical recommendations you may have received as you read our reviews to find the pair of socks that are right for you.

How Our Top Pick Gets Chosen

With so many options, choosing the best diabetic sock for most people is a tough decision. However, there are a few reasons why our Number One  Creswell Diabetic Socks, Crew Length, takes its top spot.

  • All-around performance. Across many different metrics, our top spot holds superior qualities to many of its competitors.
  • Highly therapeutic. The most important thing people need from their socks for diabetes is the reduction of pain and swelling. Our top choice has been tested quite a bit by people with a wide variety of medical concerns and can help most of them.
  • Great value. The best socks should also have the best value. Strong durability and an excellent price point help justify these socks by more than just their performance.

Best Diabetic Socks Comparison Table 

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Top 10 Best Diabetic Socks Review of 2020 (Updated)

1. Creswell Diabetic Socks, Crew Length

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The best diabetic socks in this list are a long and comfortable option from dedicated sock producer Creswell that has some of the best value of any product on this list. Designed to be loose-fitting, warm, and comfortable, these socks have a relatively low per-pair price while still being tall enough to escape work boots and other high-reaching shoes, best socks for work boots.

Specifications:

  • 80% cotton 15% polyester, and 5% spandex
  • 9.1 x 6.6 x 6.4 inches
  • 8 oz/pair
  • Reaches the lower-mid calf

Features and Benefits:

  • Retains a small amount of elasticity while staying loose-fitting. This can mean enhanced fit and comfort and can help avoid abrasions.
  • Quality materials at a low price. These socks stay replaceable and disposable without sacrificing material feel and quality.
  • A very general profile and fit. These socks can be worn by men and women with a variety of different foot shapes and sizes without diminishing comfort or utility value.
  • High-reaching above ankles. This can help to decrease pressure shoes that may exert on your ankles and makes these socks compatible with a wider variety of footwear.
  • Made in the USA. Manufacturing in the USA not only supports American business but also ensures that each batch meets strict safety and production standards.
  • Compatible with anyone. These socks are designed to hold a very general fit without constricting larger feet, especially if you order a size up.

Pros:

  • Should fit most wearers
  • Comfortable in most types of shoes
  • Soft cotton feel
  • Ventilated
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • Low durability
  • Can develop lint

Verdict:

These are a very good general-purpose option for everyday wear that prioritizes comfort over durability. Most diabetics and others with sensitive feet should find in them a comfortable, sustainable choice. Buy them for their short-term prowess and not long-term presence.

2. Physician’s Choice Men’s Diabetic Crew Socks

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These socks are designed and clinically tested to be some of the best diabetic socks for people of many different ages, body sizes, and medical conditions. With a focus on enhanced elasticity, while maintaining some of the best circulations of any pair on the list, these socks from brand Physician’s Choice could be a long-term solution for your pain and swelling.

Specifications:

  • Cotton and polyester blend
  • 11 x 8 x 5 inches
  • Knit-in vents
  • Extend up to lower-mid calf

Features and Benefits:

  • Designed with health in mind. These socks are designed and tested to provide relief for a wide variety of common pedal health issues.
  • Slightly elastic to provide an enhanced fit. While extra-sensitive feet may not do well in these socks, most diabetics should find them well-fitting thanks to the minor elasticity without restricting circulation.
  • Well-fitted and flexible. These socks are, for the most part, very well-fitting. For extra looseness or wide feet, ordering one to two sizes up can provide a more comfortable experience.
  • Many color choices. These socks provide many different styles and color choices to complement different outfits and occasions without changing up materials and fit.
  • Maximum toe comfort. Physician’s Choice has designed its crew socks to be as comfortable as possible on your toes with smooth interior materials and no seams.

Pros:

  • Very good at relieving pain and swelling
  • Best ventilation without getting pricey
  • Good for summer wear
  • Snug around feet but not calf
  • True seamless design

Cons:

  • Lacking in foot support
  • Can be prone to damage

Verdict:

For those seeking lightweight and relatively inexpensive socks that work well with sensitive feet, these may be the perfect option. Their versatility and low-profile nature make them ideal for everyday wear. Try out a pair to see if the lightweight and thin profile is right for you.

3. Falari Physicians Approved Diabetic Socks, Crew, Unisex

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These socks are some of the tallest on this list and can provide a high-reaching and warm feel while still maintaining good circulation and dissipating moisture easily. They may be the ideal choice for those who prefer tall socks and do not want to break the bank for pricier options.

Specifications:

  • 90% cotton, 7% polyester, and 3% spandex
  • Reach the mid-calf or slightly higher

Features and Benefits:

  • Thick and comfortable. These socks are made with thicker and softer materials than most other diabetic socks, providing enhanced comfort.
  • Well-padded soles. The soles of each pair are enhanced with some extra thickness, providing noticeable padding for most footwear.
  • Long and high-reaching. Extending above the midpoint of the calf helps to improve circulation and may be more comfortable for some people.
  • Warm and ready for winter. Although these socks have no special insulating materials, their length and thickness make them solid choices for cold seasons and weather.
  • Inexpensive and replaceable. Getting a tear or stain on these socks is no major concern when they are one of the least expensive options on our list.

Pros:

  • Thick cotton materials
  • Very comfortable
  • Warm in the winter
  • Low cost per pair
  • More durable than similarly-priced socks

Cons:

  • Maybe too tight for some people
  • Low Quality-Control

Verdict:

These socks may make an excellent cold-weather complement to other options on our list but could be worn year-round by those who look for extra thickness and padding in their footwear, so long as you feel comfortable with a bit of extra tightness. Try them yourself and see how they stack up to your comfort needs.

4. TeeHee Viscose from Bamboo Diabetic Crew Socks

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This more luxurious option from TeeHee provides a good balance of high-quality materials, smooth feel, and carefully-tailored fits. They are ideal for those seeking a more high-end choice for small feet. Plus, with extra spandex throughout the sole and top of the foot, these have a more durable and smooth structure than most other choices.

Specifications:

  • 53% viscose from bamboo, 32% elastic, 12% nylon, 3% spandex
  • Only come in smaller sizes
  • Extend a few inches above the ankle

Features and Benefits:

  • Use of luxury materials. The Viscose from TeeHee uses more expensive materials to provide a softer feel and closer fit while staying minimally restrictive.
  • Loose fit for small feet. The lower portions of these socks have enhanced structure to better surround and support your feet without restricting them.
  • More durable construction. The higher standards of production and materials in these socks pay off through their enhanced product lifespan and protection against rips and tears.
  • Extra padding on the soles. For those seeking a medium-weight sock with thick sole padding, these may be the perfect balance of both elements.
  • Breathable knit ankle and calf materials. A distinct separation exists between the feet and the calves with these socks; the former receives extra softness and padding while the latter has minimal pressure and maximum moisture wicking capabilities.

Pros:

  • Smoother and less prone to lint than cotton
  • Very stretchy without being tight
  • Moderately durable and resistant to holes and tears
  • Very strong ventilation
  • Nice appearance

Cons:

  • Limited to small sizes
  • May not accommodate wide feet

Verdict:

These socks are some of the most comfortable and high-quality on this list but become limited by the relatively small number of people they fit. They are a comfortable and well-fitted pair of socks if they fit, but unusable if not. Give them a try if you can get a pair in your size.

5. WigWam Diabetic Thermal Socks

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Although they are pricier than most socks on this list, these thermal socks from WigWam are made with perfect fit, comfort, and materials for diabetics in need of cold-weather foot protection. With no reservations in materials, stitching, and design, these are probably the best diabetic socks you can find for winter weather conditions.

Specifications:

  • 65% acrylic, 19% merino wool, and 16% stretch nylon
  • 12 x 5 x 2 inches (medium)
  • Extend up to your lower-mid calves
  • Wool provides heat insulation

Features and Benefits:

  • Top-notch for frigid weather. WigWam has designed these socks to be the premier option for those seeking diabetic socks with as much winter weather protection as possible.
  • Large cuffs around the top. These cuffs help to keep out cold air and snow without restricting circulation for most wearers.
  • Soft merino wool. Many winter socks use less-expensive types of wool that can feel itchy and irritating, but the soft merino wool used in these socks provide a comfortable and natural feeling on your skin.
  • Non-compressing. Socks with elastic materials used throughout their main structure can feel cold due to decreased circulation. These socks have a looser fit than others for improved insulation and blood flow.
  • Cushioned soles and thick materials. The extra padding and comfort of these socks can make everyday wear more comfortable and help improve the fit and feel of winter boots.

Pros:

  • Best heat insulation available
  • Wool that doesn’t itch
  • Very loose fit but not open to the air
  • Super thick and comfortable
  • Good fit around ankles and calves

Cons:

  • No ventilation for summer
  • Less durable than other premium socks

Verdict:

A premium price gets you a premium sock with capable and robust heat insulation abilities. These socks are perfect for people with diabetes looking for cold-weather shoe and boot socks that keep heat in without providing compression. Try out a pair with your winter boots to see how big the difference may be.

6. Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Non-Binding Diabetes and Circulatory Crew Socks

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This somewhat pricey option from Dr. Scholl’s is an exceptionally loose-fitting pair of socks that can be one of the only options for those with extra-sensitive skin, but also provides a generally soft and smooth feel for all wearers. Because of their super-loose fit, they may be the best diabetic socks for those with sensitive skin.

Specifications:

  • 94% polyester, 5% nylon, and only 1% spandex
  • Extend to upper-mid calf
  • Odor-reducing

Features and Benefits:

  • Extremely loose-fitting. All the socks on this list, these included, have some elasticity to maintain shape. These, however, are some of the most loose-fitting socks money can buy and thus work for even those with the most sensitive feet.
  • Soft and silky. The bottoms of these socks are made of a soft and thin tight weave, while the calves can still breathe thanks to looser threads and ventilation.
  • Odor-resistant properties. These socks contain smell better than most other options without the use of fragrances.
  • Cushioned soles. Paying that little bit extra gets you some solid support and comfortable cushioning for your tired feet.
  • Entirely synthetic materials. Although some people might prefer cotton or wool socks, the use of synthetic materials means enhanced durability, decreased odors, and less long-term staining.

Pros:

  • Loosest fit for sensitive feet
  • Odor resistant
  • Very durable
  • Soft synthetic feel
  • One-year warranty

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Might be too loose

Verdict:

These socks should be a go-to for anyone who feels uncomfortable even with the light pressure of other diabetic socks. They are also a very strong choice for those looking for odor reduction properties and long-term durability in their footwear. If other diabetic socks fail you, give these a try.

7. MediPEDS Women’s Diabetic Extra Wide Crew Socks with Coolmax

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These for-women diabetic socks from MediPEDS use high thread counts, tight seams, and all-synthetic threads to provide a comfortable and smooth feel for everyday use. Plus, with the help of Coolmax fibers explicitly designed to wick away moisture faster without needing looser threads, these become some of the best socks available for those who want superior ventilation and moisture wicking capabilities.

Specifications:

  • 98% polyester and 2% spandex
  • Relatively tight knit with padded soles
  • 35% of polyester is special Coolmax fiber

Features and Benefits:

  • Coolmax moisture wicking. The flashy brand name describes the reality of its function well – these socks feel fresh and dry even with extended use.
  • Extra wide in both feet and ankles. Some diabetic socks are only wide in the toes, feet, or ankles while failing to meet needs in the other two areas. These socks are designed with wide feet and calves in mind.
  • Lightweight padding on the bottom. These socks include a thin layer of padding on the soles to provide extra shock absorption without significantly increasing weight or heat retention.
  • Seamless toe design. Some diabetic socks may still have thin or diminished toe seams that can be uncomfortable, but not these.
  • Durable and last for years. These socks are built to last a long time even with regular use.

Pros:

  • Best moisture wicking properties
  • Designed for summer wear
  • Great with wide feet
  • Padding is noticeable yet light
  • Specialty brand with reliable reputation

Cons:

  • Plain white with ugly blue logo
  • Can shrink with improper washing

Verdict:

For women seeking the best ventilation possible in diabetic socks, or those with wider feet that may not feel comfortable in most socks, these MediPEDS might be a perfect choice. Try them out yourself to see how cool and comfortable they feel.

8. Yomandamor Men’s Bamboo Non-binding Ankle Diabetic/Dress Socks

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Another less-expensive option, these socks are good for everyday wear. They are perfect for those who have great demand for comfort, like people who have diabetes and also suitable for elderly people.

Specifications:

  • 70% bamboo fiber and 30% elastane
  • Come in an ankle length
  • Thicker than normal diabetic socks

Features and Benefits:

  • Moisture-wicking bamboo fibers. Bamboo fibers help to dissipate heat and moisture faster than traditional cotton socks can.
  • Genuinely seamless toe. Eliminates colossal toe seam, reduce the risk of infection and blistering.
  • Non-binding top. Stay-up performance. It will not fall down and remain secure during any workout.
  • Ultra-soft. Soft material for the finest fit. Can provide ultimate comfort. The toe covering for these socks is seamless and designed to reduce pressure and abrasion on your toes.
  • Large wide calf and top. It has large wide calf and top; designed to breath and wick away sweat impeccably.

Pros:

  • Very good ventilation
  • Fit for all seasons
  • Environmental and healthy
  • Professional design
  • Excellent toe comfort

Cons:

  • Very prone to holes and wearing out
  • Maybe sensitive to incorrect wash settings

Verdict:

These socks are comfortable, and inexpensive. Along with seamless toe, they also have a nice, soft and loose tops that easily fit around the ankle. Try out a few pairs to see if they could be your new day-to-day socks to wear.

9. Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Diabetes Circulatory Crew Socks

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These socks are similar to the other pair from Dr. Scholl’s to make this list, but carry a few key differences to help set them apart. Notably, their female-focused fit helps them feel comfortable and lightweight while still using quality materials and granting increased circulation through one of the loosest fits possible while still maintaining shape.

Specifications:

  • 94% polyester, 5% nylon, and 1% spandex
  • Reach lower-mid calves
  • Odor-reducing

Features and Benefits:

  • Loose and comfortable fit. Like the option for men featured earlier in this list, these socks are some of the loosest ones available that can stay above your ankles and are thus perfect as sports socks even the most sensitive skin and circulatory systems.
  • Moisture-wicking technology. Feet stay drier for longer thanks to the presence of all-synthetic materials.
  • Odor suppression properties. Because they do not retain much moisture, these socks also tend to smell less and better contain odors, even after a long day.
  • Comfortable cushioning on the soles. Extra cushioning on the bottoms of these socks aids in shock absorption and provides a layer of comfort for your feet.
  • A full-year guarantee. Dr. Scholl’s offers a one-year warranty on these socks, ensuring that your investment in a premium pair pays off in the form of increased durability.

Pros:

  • Loosest fit for sensitive feet
  • High-quality and smooth materials
  • Odor reduction capabilities
  • Full sole cushioning
  • Strong moisture wicking

Cons:

  • Can be too loose for some people
  • Prone to lint

Verdict:

These socks are the perfect choice for women with extra-sensitive feet for whom even other diabetic socks may be too tight. They are also a generally loose and durable choice with enhanced moisture wicking capabilities, but might not be the right feel for everyone. Try them yourself to see if an ultra-loose option is right for you.

10. Falari Unisex Diabetic Ankle Socks

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With a primarily cotton construction and a lower cut than most socks on this list, these diabetic ankle socks may be the best option available for those seeking low-cut socks that can still help reduce pain and discomfort associated with their medical conditions.

Specifications:

  • 90% cotton, 7% polyester, and 3% spandex
  • Reach the upper ankle

Features and Benefits:

  • A good option for those who prefer short socks. Many diabetic socks come in longer crew sock shapes to help improve circulation, but these stay short while still avoiding constriction.
  • Inexpensive and simple. Not everyone wants fancy socks; it may feel better to fill your drawers with comfortable but forgettable footwear.
  • A mostly loose fit. These socks may feel somewhat looser than their longer counterparts because they cannot extend up to constrict your calves.
  • Mostly cotton for a comfortable feel. Some people may prefer the familiar feel of cotton on these feet, and these socks capture that light and pleasant sensation perfectly.

Pros:

  • Comfortable cotton feel
  • No pressure on the ankles
  • Low-cut and good for tennis shoes
  • Good to wear year-round
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • May need to be ordered a size up to fit
  • Not very durable

Verdict:

Not many options exist for inexpensive and replaceable medium-weight diabetic socks, but for a classic fit and feel, these may be just what you are looking for. They may just be the best ankle-height socks available in medium thickness. Try out a pair if you prefer low-cuts to crew socks.

Things To Consider When Buying The Best Socks For Diabetic Feet

Good foot health starts with the things you wear on your feet. Your foremost priority when selecting a pair of socks should be whether they help or harm you. Socks that feel too tight or too loose may not just be uncomfortable – they could even be dangerous. In some cases, you may have other medical conditions that can change your needs and comfort levels for different pairs of socks.

One of the most important aspects to consider is whether or not the socks constrict your feet. Any buildup of moisture, swelling, discomfort, or lack of feeling in your feet should be seen as a sign of socks that are too tight. Even some types of diabetic socks can still be a bit tight for some individuals. The best way to find the most comfortable and best-fitting socks for you may be to start with slightly tighter but more comfortable socks and trying out looser fits only if those fail to meet your needs.

You should also consider the price to performance ratio of the socks you purchase. Expensive socks can feel more comfortable and luxurious, but unless they can last longer than pairs bought for less, they might not be worth their asking prices. Some companies like Dr. Scholl’s offer replacement guarantees for socks that fail to hold up over time and this could be a significant boost in value.

Finally, once you know what kind of fit, durability, and comfort you want, appearance can come into play. Since most people rarely look at their socks, it may not be worth spending extra to get a pair that looks nice but feels worse. However, some socks on this list offer different color and style options that can help to complement outfits or fit in with different dress codes. Adding some variety to your drawer never hurts.

Be sure to consult with your doctor or other medical professionals before making long-term changes to get the best possible advice for your specific condition. They may be able to help you determine the best diabetic socks for your specific needs.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

We use the following criteria when evaluating which socks to include in this list, where to put them, and how to compare them to other pairs:

  • Reduction of swelling and pain. The most important criteria used for evaluation of socks both included in this list and kept out of it is their ability to reduce swelling and provide a more comfortable fit for people with diabetes and sensitive feet. All socks on this list have seamless, flat-seamed, or other diminished seams in their toes, are made with materials and fibers that help to remove moisture and are less elastic than ordinary socks.
  • Looseness/snugness of fit. Every pair of socks reviewed in this article is loose and well-designed enough to provide relief for common symptoms and fit most people comfortably. However, not all people feel the same fit or can tolerate the same levels of elasticity and pressure, so we have taken care to include some of the most loose-fitting options available.
  • Moisture wicking. Effective moisture wicking promotes good foot health and can prevent some common health concerns from arising. Particularly strong moisture wicking capabilities can earn some socks a higher spot on our list, while socks without built-in moisture wicking are excluded entirely.
  • Price and utility. We also evaluate these socks based on utility. Some of our top choices are in their places, not just because of their comfort and health benefits, but also because they deliver the best price to performance ratios available. We also only include machine-washable socks, but some pairs lose points due to being sensitive to washing and drying machines set incorrectly. Some extra features, such as odor mitigation and enhanced moisture dissipation, also factor into our ratings for products that include them.
  • Comfort features. Comfort features, such as padding on soles or the use of extra-soft interior fabrics, are also one of our most important considerations. However, some extra-comfy compression socks that do not work well for diabetic feet fail to make this list because they may not be healthy for most wearers.
  • Durability and product lifespan. A durable pair of socks that resists wear, holes, and discoloration can be a much better choice in the long run than other (cheaper) pairs. The best diabetic socks either last a long time or cost very little to replace.
  • Style and color choices. Sometimes, it can be difficult to differentiate between two different pairs of especially similar socks, and superior aesthetics can give one option an edge over another.

Advantages/Disadvantages of Using Diabetic Socks

Advantages:

  • Can help to improve your foot health and reduce swelling, pain, and moisture buildup associated with diabetes and other medical conditions.
  • Loose fits may feel more comfortable than non-diabetic socks.
  • Diabetic socks do not retain sweat and moisture as other socks do.
  • Enhanced circulation can help you feel pain and problems when they happen rather than hours later.

Disadvantages:

  • Diabetic socks may be slightly more expensive than regular socks.
  • Many brands and pairs require careful washing and drying to avoid shrinkage and damage.

Who Should Use Diabetic Socks

Diabetic socks are designed to be worn comfortably by people with diabetes, nerve damage, recent surgery, sensitive skin, or other conditions that may make regular socks uncomfortable or even harmful. However, diabetic socks can be worn by almost anyone. Some people without any relevant health concerns find diabetic socks to be more comfortable and high-quality than most other types of socks and wear them out of preference.

Other Factors to Consider

You might want to think about a few other things when considering what type of socks to fill your drawers with:

  • Your choice of socks might change depending on your attire and dress codes. Uniforms, office attire, exercise clothes, winter weather, and other factors may change what you need from your socks on a day-to-day basis.
  • Unisex socks work fine, but socks specific to men’s feet or women’s feet may fit better. Minor differences in the bone structure between male and female feet can make gender-specific socks feel more comfortable and more well-tailored than unisex options.
  • Think about the environment you plan to wear your socks in. Casual lounging and walking around at home may call for a different pair of socks than if you were outside working on your feet all day. In general, thicker and more well-padded socks should be more helpful when you need to stay on your feet longer.
  • The height of your socks can make a big difference. Wearing long socks when you are used to short ones (or vice versa) may not feel comfortable even with high-quality materials. Try and get pairs of socks that do not differ significantly from what you already wear daily, unless you just want to try something new.
  • Socks should be replaced once they start to lose their strength and softness. Whether that happens after a few months or a few years does not matter – only fresh socks can be healthy for your feet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do diabetic socks really work?

A: Diabetic socks help to improve circulation for a wide variety of medical conditions and problems, not the least of which is diabetes. The enhanced blood flow to your feet should keep them healthier, protect nerve cells, and reduce swelling.

Q: Can anyone wear diabetic socks?

A: Yes. Diabetic socks are designed to help relieve a wide variety of potential health conditions, but diabetes is the most common and prominent one and hence, where these socks get their name. Diabetic socks can be worn by anyone, and many people prefer and praise them for their enhanced comfort.

Q: Do diabetic socks help circulation?

A: Yes. By keeping a good fit, hiding or removing seams, and wicking away moisture, diabetic socks can improve the flow of blood to all parts of your feet, including the skin and toes.

Q: Should diabetics wear socks to bed?

A: Most of the time, you should remove your socks before lying down to go to bed (or any other time you may be lying down for a long time). However, some doctors may tell you otherwise. If your doctor says that you should wear your socks to bed, then make sure to follow his or her instructions carefully.

Q: When should I replace a pair of socks?

A: Some socks, especially many pricier pairs, may last longer than others. However, you should replace any pair of diabetic socks that is starting to lose its shape, shrink, or smell unusual even after washing. You should also replace socks that have holes, tears, or significant fraying in any part of their bodies but especially on the heels and toes. Otherwise, these socks could have reduced protective capabilities and cause damage to your feet.

Conclusion

Swelling, pain, discomfort, and other medical problems associated with poor foot care may take more than just a change in socks to treat effectively. Always consult with a medical professional on what steps you need to take to remedy chronic or temporary foot problems. However, by choosing a pair of diabetic socks based on your preferences and needs, you may be able to reduce and assist in treating many common health problems.

Any of the socks on this list can help to reduce strain and swelling in your feet, but the pair that is right to you can only be determined through careful comparison and perhaps a few trials of different products. See for yourself how these, some of the best diabetic socks available on the web, could change your life and mitigate pedal health problems.

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