Throw Away Those Socks
December 4 is National Sock Day, a time when we celebrate the socks that are still hanging together as a pair. It’s a big accomplishment to keep a set together. Do you know when to toss them, though? Here at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center, it’s our goal to share a few signs to help make the decision easier.
Before you start tossing socks, remember the many ways they protect our feet. We benefit by receiving protection from too much friction, dirt and debris, and injuries. Toss your favorite fuzzy accessories if you see these signs:
Holes — big or small
Don’t ignore the signs if you see holes. This means your feet are no longer as protected and are lacking coverage. Holes in socks allow moisture, dirt, debris, and more to get close to your feet. All these unwanted scenarios can create bigger problems. If you see holes, it’s time to let that pair go.
Lines on your skin
If you see lines on your skin from socks, you may have outgrown your favorite pair. Tight cuffs are not only uncomfortable but also dangerous. For patients with diabetes who already struggle with poor circulation, a tight pair can make things worse. Check your feet after removing your pair each day. What do you see?
Smells or stains
If the smell just won’t go away on your socks, toss them. Smelly feet are often a sign of a fungal infection. If a regular wash on laundry day isn’t helping, start new. If you see stains, you also must wonder if you are wearing a clean pair. Some stains are hard to remove but starting with a clean set of socks is best for your foot health. If you play sports, keep an eye out for smelly and dirty ones.
Lack of support
If your pairs have dropped the ball and are no longer giving support, let them go. Providing cushion is a vital role, so don’t hesitate to replace thinning pairs with a newer, more comfortable set. Prioritize every part of your foot health, including your sock selection.
Our board-certified team of foot and ankle doctors at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center has experience with addressing foot needs, including bunions and hammertoes, pediatric foot care, custom orthotics, heel pain, diabetic foot care, and more. The team includes Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, and Dr. Laura Vander Poel. We have two locations in Hartford County: 1379 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT, and 1350 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.