The Perfect Sock
We use them almost every day. They come in all different forms and sizes and some even come with bells and bows. What am I talking about? Your socks! Do you ever wonder if your socks are feet friendly? Believe it or not but socks made out of the wrong fabric or that are poorly made may worsen some common foot conditions.
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommends the following when shopping for socks:
Purchase a sock made of a polysynthetic blend. This material will best wick away moisture from the foot, which can prevent blister formation and irritation.
Avoid socks with large seams at the toe or in other areas. Those with diabetes or decreased circulation, who have an increased chance of developing irritation and blistering of the foot skin, should seek out seamless socks whenever possible.
Choose thickness of sock material based on personal preference and comfort.
Evaluate each sock’s fit, making sure that there is no loose fabric around toes or heels.
Conversely, socks that are too tight can decrease circulation and comfort.
If you suffer from sweaty feet also known as hyperhydrosis, it is especially important to buy the correct socks. You may think 100% cotton is the best way to go but a blend of cotton with other natural materials will do a better job of wicking away moisture. Choosing the right sock will keep your feet dryer and less stinky. Maybe you will think again when buying your husband’s socks!
Noticing the importance of choosing the right socks, the APMA recently recognized and gave the seal of acceptance to two new sock products. Injinji Footwear Performance Series Tetratsok has a patented anatomical, five toe-design that separates toes with an anti-friction seamless membrane. The sock is made out of a combination of coolmax wicking fiber, and a durable shell cover of nylon and lycra. This helps protect the foot from slipping and sliding in your shoe.
The Takeda Legwear Big Toe R x L socks are designed specifically for the right and left feet. This allows for a snug and comfortable fit. BigToe R x L socks is also made from Coolmax fabric to keep moisture away from your skin.
They next time you buy socks, take a closer look at the materials. Slip them on and see how they fit. Are they snug? Can you feel the seams? Are there any knobs of fabric that are rubbing against your feet? Just as importantly are your shoes. If your shoes are too tight, it will exacerbate the effects of poor quality socks. Make sure your shoes are the right size and gives you room to wiggle your toes.
Showing posts with label athlete's feet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label athlete's feet. Show all posts
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Is Athlete's Feet Serious?
Most people do not worry if they have a little athlete's foot since they don't feel it is a serious problem. On the contrary, athlete's feet is serious and especially serious if you a diabetic. Athelete's foot is caused by a fungus and if left untreated can lead to a more serious bacterial infection.
The fungus in athlete's foot loves warm, dark and moist areas. So you are more likely to get an athlete's foot infection if your feet perspire excessively or if you are around wet areas like a swimming pool. In addition, it can be contracted in your home by other people and even your pets. The fungus can be picked up from infected skin that has shed onto floors, mats, bed linens, and other surgaces as well as by direct contact.
Athlete's foot causes small breaks in the skin that can allow bacteria to spread. This can lead to a very serious infection called cellulitis, which is an infection of the skin. Cellulitis spreads eaily to the lymph nodes and bloodstream. If left untreated, this condition can be life-threatening.
Athlete's foot can also lead to fungal infections of the toenails, which can be difficult to treat.
Mild cases of athlete's feet can be treated with over-the-counter remedies but if you are a diabetic you should see a podiatrist. Diabetics are more prone to infection and it is best to treat any foot problem immediately and appropriately. 25% of all hospital admissions for diabetics are foot related. More serious types of athlete's feet require stronger forms of treatment. The podiatrist can prescribe stronger anti-fungals and teach you how to prevent these problems from reoccuring.
The fungus in athlete's foot loves warm, dark and moist areas. So you are more likely to get an athlete's foot infection if your feet perspire excessively or if you are around wet areas like a swimming pool. In addition, it can be contracted in your home by other people and even your pets. The fungus can be picked up from infected skin that has shed onto floors, mats, bed linens, and other surgaces as well as by direct contact.
Athlete's foot causes small breaks in the skin that can allow bacteria to spread. This can lead to a very serious infection called cellulitis, which is an infection of the skin. Cellulitis spreads eaily to the lymph nodes and bloodstream. If left untreated, this condition can be life-threatening.
Athlete's foot can also lead to fungal infections of the toenails, which can be difficult to treat.
Mild cases of athlete's feet can be treated with over-the-counter remedies but if you are a diabetic you should see a podiatrist. Diabetics are more prone to infection and it is best to treat any foot problem immediately and appropriately. 25% of all hospital admissions for diabetics are foot related. More serious types of athlete's feet require stronger forms of treatment. The podiatrist can prescribe stronger anti-fungals and teach you how to prevent these problems from reoccuring.