The Purpose of Diabetic Socks Whenever I mention the words diabetic socks, I almost always get the same questions, -what are diabetic socks and what do they do. It is the design of the sock that is useful to the diabetic. Diabetic socks are a non-binding type of sock. They are made in such a way that the skin can breathe easily and some have special moisture-wicking capabilities. Because the feet and legs are our main source of mobility, they get a lot of wear. The bottoms normally have extra padding and the socks are usually designed to have no seams or very smooth seams.

That is the mechanical properties of the socks. I am not sure that the socks were invented specifically for diabetics, but they certainly are useful and the name has stuck and become a standard in the sock business. These properties make them useful to people suffering with many foot and leg characteristics. They are loosely knit and have a lot of stretch in the part that covers the ankle and calf.

The generic answer is to protect your foot and prevent complications like infections and amputations.