People suffering from diabetes sometimes experience difficulties regarding poor circulation. As sufferers age, these problems tend to become increasingly pressing and dangerous. These circulation problems can result in numerous complications. For example, circulation can deaden sensation and prevent a diabetic from noticing a cut or a bruise that can become aggravated and lead to complications such as septicemia.

The deadening of sensation is referred to as "neuropathy." More often than you would think, septicemia can require amputation. Not only that, but within three years, 50% these amputations require an additional one either on the same side or on the other side.

Researchers have recently developed a type of customized sock for diabetics. The socks feature individual "fingers" for each toe. In other words, instead of the blunt, rounded front edge most socks have, diabetic socks cover each individual toe. What makes these socks useful for diabetics is that frequently the skin between toes often gets cracked and split because feet do not have thick skin in these areas.

Often times, infections can penetrate into deep tissue through the splits. The diabetic socks insulate and protect these areas from infection while providing other additional perks as well.

If you look online, you can find socks for anywhere between two and seventy dollars. For this reason, you should know what to look for when shopping. The two main goals of the diabetic sock are health resources to keep feet dry and to reduce the amount of friction they exert on the feet. The key features to look for are as follows:

(1) Does the sock feature a seamless toe?

(2) Is it non-binding?

(3) Does it have cushioning?

(4) Does it have any type of "wicking," or does it feature a type of fabric that keeps moisture off of the surface of the skin?

You may also want to check if a pair of socks you are considering for purchase boasts the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance for Diabetics. Brands such as Reflexa carry this seal as well as Incredisock.

Diabetic socks will usually share characteristics with travel socks such as "compression." Compression is when a company designs a sock slightly smaller in size than the foot size. Another item to check for is material. Often, a diabetic sock will use a material called Celliant. Celliant helps to maintain circulation, lessen foot pain, quicken healing processes and even increase athletic performance.