That's the question I asked a patient recently while treating her painful cracked heel and athlete's foot during her podiatry treatment.
She grinned and told me that she had no clue about socks other than receiving Christmas socks or buying cheap multipack socks when she ends up with an assortment of odd socks (where do socks disappear !?).
Socks are in fact important to foot health, comfort, temperature regulation, support, cushioning and prevention of foot problems.
Here are some tips on improving your socks life:
MATERIAL: Socks can be made from many materials; matching material to the activity can make a difference to overall foot health and comfort.
Generally, bamboo and cotton socks, bless them! Are good all-round materials for everyday comfort.
Additional materials such as merino wool and cashmere are good for colder weathers.
Cotton, polyester, nylon and spandex mix can be great for hiking, sports and athletics because they improve comfort, moisture wicking, temperature control and stretchability.
Socks with additional cushioning underfoot are great for high impact activities and for preventing blisters.
For feet, legs and ankles that become irritated or swell throughout the day 'easy-grip tops' significantly improve comfort levels.
SIZE MATTERS! Wear socks that fit well, too tight and they can inhibit free movement and cause the toes to claw, cause constriction of circulation and just generally feel uncomfortable, too big and the excess material can feel bulky and lumpy.
CHANGE DAILY! This may seem obvious but not everyone does, fungal infection and sweat and dirt can all lurk on socks, so a daily change of socks will prevent problems.
FOLLOWING THE WASHING AND DRYING INSTRUCTIONS - this will help increase the lifespan of the socks and prevent the material from losing its qualities.
THROW AWAY SOCKS WITH HOLES! - I see many patients who have foot problems because of wearing socks with holes that have cut into the skin.
Who would think that there is so much to say about the humble sock, the unsung hero of feet!
Please feel free to contact us for advice and help for any foot problems!
