foot health
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Beware of Bare!
Written by Mallory Lor, C.Ped
Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks are a revolutionary product that have been designed to provide relief to individuals with a variety of foot conditions. These socks are designed with the highest quality materials and advanced technology to ensure maximum comfort and durability. In this blog, we will discuss the features of Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks, the benefits of wearing them, and how they can help you lead a more comfortable and healthy life.
Features of Dr. Comfort's Therapeutic Socks
Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks are made with a combination of advanced materials, including acrylic and bamboo charcoal polyester which are carefully chosen for their moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and breathable properties. The socks are also designed with mild compression and a non-binding top band to help promote circulatory wellness, while the extra padding in the soles and heels provides maximum comfort and support.
Another unique feature of Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks is their light arch support and flat toe seams, which help prevent friction and reduce the risk of blisters. This is especially important for individuals with sensitive skin or those who suffer from foot conditions such as diabetes or neuropathy.
Benefits of Wearing Dr. Comfort's Therapeutic Socks
Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks offer a range of benefits for individuals with foot conditions or those who are on their feet for extended periods. Some of the key benefits include:
- Circulatory Wellness: The non-binding top band and extra padding in the soles and heels help promote circulation, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the feet.
- Moisture management: The advanced materials used in Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks are designed to wick away moisture and help deter the growth of bacteria, foot odor and infections.
- Increased comfort: The extra padding and arch brace in the foot bottom provides maximum comfort and support.
- Protection from injury: Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks can help protect your feet from injury by providing additional cushioning and support.
- Improved overall foot health:
- Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks can help improve overall foot health and reduce the risk of foot-related complications.
Who Can Benefit from Dr. Comfort's Therapeutic Socks?
Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks are designed for anyone who suffers from foot conditions such as diabetes, neuropathy, or arthritis, or those who are on their feet for extended periods. They are also ideal for athletes, travelers, and anyone who wants to improve the comfort and health of their feet.
Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks are an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve the comfort and health of their feet. If you suffer from foot conditions or are on your feet for extended periods, we highly recommend trying Dr. Comfort's therapeutic socks. Your feet will thank you!
The contents of this blog were independently prepared and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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American Diabetes Alert Day
Written by Mallory Lor, C.Ped
American Diabetes Alert Day is observed on the fourth Tuesday of March every year. This day is dedicated to spreading awareness about diabetes and its associated risks.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 37 million people in the United States have diabetes, and 88 million people have prediabetes, a condition that puts them at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This makes American Diabetes Alert Day an important event, as it helps people understand the importance of preventing diabetes and managing the disease if they have already been diagnosed.
The theme for this year's American Diabetes Alert Day is "Take the Test. Know Your Score." The American Diabetes Association (ADA) encourages people to take the Diabetes Risk Test, which is available on their website. The Diabetes Risk Test is an excellent tool for people to assess their risk of developing diabetes. It is a simple and easy test that can be completed in less than a minute. However, it is important to note that the test is not a diagnostic tool, and people who receive a high-risk score should consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. You can find the Risk Test here.
There are several preventive measures people can take to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Following a healthy diet
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
People with prediabetes can also take steps to prevent the onset of diabetes, such as participating in a diabetes prevention program and making lifestyle changes.
For people with diabetes or even prediabetes, therapeutic shoes are specially designed footwear that provide additional support and cushioning. Diabetes can cause nerve damage and poor blood flow to the feet, leading to foot ulcers and other complications. Therapeutic shoes can help prevent these complications by reducing pressure on the feet, providing adequate support, and protecting the feet from injuries. They also have extra depth and a wider toe box to accommodate any deformities or swelling. By wearing therapeutic shoes, people with diabetes can reduce their risk of foot injuries and ulcers, leading to better overall foot health and quality of life. Whether you have diabetes, prediabetes or perhaps don’t have diabetes at all, Dr. Comfort’s therapeutic shoes are a great choice to keep your feet comfortable.
To find a Footwear Professional in your area click here.
The contents of this blog were independently prepared and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
Works Cited
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). National Diabetes Statistics Report. Retrieved from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html. Accessed 3/20/2023.
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New Year’s Resolutions
Written by Erick Janisse, CO, CPed
Dr. Comfort® Education Department
Surely, you’ve made some New Year’s resolutions in the past. There’s also a good chance they didn’t work. Right? As someone living with diabetes, of course you know that eating healthily, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising are all good things for you - no one needs to tell you that (again). So why is it so hard to stick with New Year’s resolutions to do those things?
According to a recent article from Psychology Today, recognizing that there is something about you that you’d like (or need) to change is only part of the process. It's not enough just to acknowledge this. You actually have to decide that the pros of changing your lifestyle outweigh the cons of continuing on as you have been.
This same article describes five basic stages that one must go through to effect lasting change. They are:
- Precontemplation: You don’t necessarily think there is a problem, but those close to may be concerned.
- Contemplation: You ponder and weigh the pros and cons of a proposed change.
- Preparation: You engage and take the necessary steps to get ready to enact the change.
- Action: You change your behavior.
- Maintenance: You work out ways to stick to your change long-term.
One of the main reasons so-called “New Year’s” resolutions fail is that there is pressure to begin on a specific date on the calendar and not necessarily when the “resolver” is ready to begin the process in earnest. What are the chances you’ll really be truly prepared for Step 4 exactly on January first? There's a fairly good chance that many people who swore a New Year's resolution did it because they felt pressure to do so, not because they were actually ready. And that is a big reason why they failed.
So, rather than committing to declare your New Year’s resolution precisely on January first, make the resolution when you are prepared to begin. Maybe it’s a few days late…maybe it’s February. But make sure you are prepared and in the right mindset to begin. You'll feel like you’ve got more willpower, and your resolutions will be more likely to stick.
With that being said, don’t wait too long. This is your health we’re talking about. And why not let Dr. Comfort be part of your plan for 2023? Undertaking any sort of exercise or activity program requires just the right footwear. Comfortable, supportive and cushioned are what you’re looking for. Think the Grace, Refresh, Meghan or Spirit for women and the Gordon, Performance, Jack or Endurance for men.
You can do this! We can help!
The contents of this blog were independently prepared and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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August – National Wellness Month
Written by Erick Janisse, CO, CPed
Dr. Comfort® Education DepartmentSometimes…especially lately…it seems we’re doing all we can just to get through the day; just to survive. But wouldn’t you like to thrive instead? Taking a little time each day to focus on your overall wellness can shift you from just surviving over to thriving – and enjoying life to the fullest.
“Wellness” isn’t just a euphemism for “Exercise and lose weight, you couch potato!” Not at all. Wellness is primarily being in good physical health as well as being in a state of good mental health. The two are intricately linked and trouble with one often causes trouble in the other. By the same token, improving one, often helps the other. There has been much research published that supports the fact that the better you feel physically, the better you’ll feel mentally – and the happier you’ll be.
This doesn’t mean you have to set lofty (and often unattainable) goals like completing an Iron Man triathlon to commemorate your seventieth birthday. Wellness means starting slowly - and doing things you find enjoyable. Make it a point to take a walk three or four times a week. Or, heck, every day! It can be a walk around the block, a stroll in the park or a few laps at the track at the middle school. Doing it with a friend not only makes it more fun, but it helps to hold each of you accountable. And don’t forget all of the comfy and supportive walking shoes that you can get from Dr. Comfort®. For women, the Refresh, Spirit, Grace and Diane are great choices. For the gentlemen, the Gordon, Endurance, Performance and Winner are just some of our excellent walking shoes styles.
Take up an interesting new hobby. Maybe you want to learn to cross-country ski or go snow-shoeing this winter. Take horsemanship or even riding lessons (horses are good for the soul, too!). Head out into the wilderness for some mild hiking and birdwatching. Learn to play the drums – that’s a great cardio workout and super fun. There are all kinds of things out there that are good for your mind and body.
Sign up for a cooking class and learn some delicious new healthy recipes that you can share with your friends and family. Check your community centers. Our local grocery store even has healthy cooking classes!
Finally, if you’re trying to lose weight, don’t fret if you’re not losing weight as quickly as you’d like to - or even at all. Research has shown that even just trying to lose weight (in earnest) leads to significantly better health!
The contents of this blog were independently prepared and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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Global Running Day – June 1st
Written by Brian Lane, C.Ped
Run?! No, I only run when someone chases me. The only running I know is the one in my stockings. I thought they said “rum.” Just don’t do it. I don’t even want to drive that far.
I know, I know. Running is one of those exercises that you either love or hate. But when I say “run,” it doesn’t mean you should be training for a marathon. Running for just 10 minutes a day can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, lower your resting heart rate, and helps to release endorphins for better sleep. Not to mention, it can be done almost anywhere at anytime with limited equipment.
Just like any new exercise, checking with your doctor is an important first step. The next step is ordering the right shoes. Dr. Comfort® has a great line of running shoes with a stability outsole. The outsole has a dual density rearfoot to help overpronation and a flared outsole. What that means is the shoe provides more stability and prevents walking on the inside of the foot. The styles with this feature great for running are the Gordon, Grace, Jack and Diane. The breathable upper materials will also ensure your run is comfortable and dry.
In addition, compression garments, like our Dr. Comfort® calf sleeve or other mild to moderate compression wear, can help for quicker recovery and re-oxygenation of blood. Proper shoes and compression will ensure your feet are ready to take you on that journey to cardiovascular health!
If you read our other blog on walking, we said “Walking is the first step to living a healthy lifestyle.” Well, to rephrase what Neil Armstrong said, walking is the small step for health but running is that giant leap for your well-being! Happy running!
For more information about compression wear, read our Compression Wear F.A.Q
The contents of this blog were independently prepared and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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Happy National Nylon Stockings Day – May 15th
Written by Denise Iatarola, Dr. Comfort Product Manager
It’s 2022 and nylon stockings don’t exactly scream excitement, but that was not always the case. You may be surprised to learn nylon stockings have a long and documented history in America.
Prior to the 1930’s, women’s stockings were a wardrobe staple, made of expensive silk, wool, rayon, cotton, or a combination of these materials with limited stretch and sheerness.
In 1934, Nylon was invented by a team of DuPont researchers led by Wallace Carothers and Julian Hill and touted as synthetic silk, “as strong as steel and as fine as a spider’s web.” Nylon and nylon stockings were introduced to the public in 1939 at the World’s Fair in New York. DuPont unveiled the first 100% synthetic fiber not to a scientific crowd but instead to thousands of women’s club members who were at the fair attending a forum on various topics. They were sold! Commercial production began and by 1940 nylon stockings were available throughout the United States. Within one year, DuPont sold 64 million pairs of nylon stockings. The company decided not to register nylon as a trademark, but to instead allow the word to settle into the American language and soon “nylons” was synonymous with women’s stockings.
Then just as quick as they appeared, nylon stockings were no longer available. In 1941, the U.S. entered World War II and the supply of nylon and silk was taken over by the War Production Board. The material was used to make many different military supplies including parachutes, tents, ropes and even tires. Women across the country donated their used stockings to help the war effort. Nylon stockings previously selling for $1.25 per pair were now a luxury, selling for over $10.00 on the black market.
After the war was over, nylon stockings made a resurgence. Thousands of women stood in line to buy them. In New York, Macy’s sold their entire stock of 50,000 pairs in just 6 hours and in San Francisco, a store was forced to shut down when it was mobbed by 10,000 frenzied shoppers. It would be three years before the supply was able to catch up with the demand.
Today, nylon stockings include many different types of garments capable of providing both fashion and technical function. The addition of spandex in garments beginning in 1958, gave nylon even more stretch and recovery benefits and set the stage for the modern compression stockings.
At Dr. Comfort®, we use nylon and spandex to make compression legwear for men and women, offering knee, thigh, and pantyhose options. Quality compression garments are made with graduated amounts of pressure, tightest at the ankle and lessening going up the leg. Graduated compression helps with circulation and aids blood flow back to the heart, relieving symptoms of vein disorders including pain, swelling and varicose veins.
To learn more about Dr. Comfort® compression stockings visit:
Compression & Socks | Dr. Comfort (drcomfort.com)
The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
References:
Bellis, Mary. "The History of Nylon Stockings." ThoughtCo, Aug. 26, 2020, thoughtco.com/history-of-nylon-stockings-1992195.
Unknown. “The History of Nylon”. LEAFtv. https://www.leaf.tv/articles/the-history-of-nylon/
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The DNA of a Diabetic Shoe - April 25
Written by Mallory Lor, C.Ped
Today is National DNA Day, which commemorates the discovery of the DNA double helix and the completion of the human genome project in 2003. You are probably thinking, why is a diabetic shoe company writing about this? Well, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to talk about the DNA of diabetic shoes and diabetic socks.
What is in the DNA of a diabetic (or therapeutic) shoe? Medicare has some basic criteria when it comes to diabetic shoes:
- Additional depth in the shoe of 3/16” (to accommodate a foot insert): Dr. Comfort® shoes are all made with at least 7/16” additional depth and in our “double depth” collection 11/16”.
- Available in half sizes and at least 3 widths: Dr. Comfort® shoes are all available in half sizes and come in Medium, Wide and Extra Wide widths. The women’s Paradise Black is available in a Narrow width.
- Constructed with leather or other suitable materials: All Dr. Comfort® shoes are made of high quality, breathable materials with most of the casual and dress collection styles made with real leather. Dr. Comfort® offers a wool collection (Sean, Dawn, Liam, Meadow, Autumn) made with Merino wool to help keep feet cool and dry.
- Must have a closure: Dr. Comfort® shoes all have closures like shoelaces, hook-and-loop or elastic no-tie laces. Many hook-and-loop closures are hidden under a faux buckle. Dr. Comfort® also just released a new style Peter (men’s) and Theresa (women’s) that has hidden hook-and-loop closures with the look of a lace up shoe.
Keeping the health and safety of customers in mind, Dr. Comfort® has taken additional measures in the construction of diabetic shoes:
- Seamless toe boxes: Dr. Comfort® shoes do not have bumpy seams in the toe box of the shoes. This helps to reduce rubbing and pressure points on those sensitive feet.
- Variety of styles and soles: Looking at our line of shoes, you’ll notice the vast array of styles and different types of soles available.
- Customizable: Dr. Comfort® shoes are constructed to be customized if needed. We can add a lift, lengthen or shorten straps, add a rocker sole and do many more customizations to ensure the shoes meet the specific needs of the wearer. (These modifications are only available through a Dr. Comfort® provider.)
Dr. Comfort® shoes are truly designed with YOU in mind! Our shoes are primarily available through health care providers who specialize in foot health. Proper footwear can help prevent more serious complications for those at risk of diabetes. If you qualify, Medicare or other insurance plans may help cover the cost. Click here to find a footwear professional.
The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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Celebrate National Walking Day
Written by: Erick Janisse
The first Wednesday in April is celebrated as National Walking Day. As humans, walking is how most of us get around; but as exercise it provides great health benefits, too! According to a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School, walking for 2.5 hours a week – that’s just over 20 minutes a day! – can reduce your risk of heart disease by as much as 30%. Walking has also been shown to decrease the risk of developing diabetes, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and even helps to keep you mentally sharp. Dr. Thomas Frieden, who served as the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under President Obama, has stated that walking is “the closest thing we have to a wonder drug.”
The Mayo Clinic - in an article titled “Walking: Trim your waistline, improve your health” - says that the faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the health benefits. They also recommend that you alternate periods of brisk walking with leisurely walking. This is known as interval training and has several benefits, like improving cardiovascular fitness and burning more calories than regular walking. Another advantage is that interval training can be done in less time than regular walking.
Of course, you should check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine, but once you decide to get started there are a few things to consider. You’ll need to plan your routine. Start slowly so that you don’t get discouraged and make a schedule that is practical and easy to adhere to. Having the right equipment is definitely an important consideration. When it comes to walking equipment, obviously you think of shoes, right? Dr. Comfort offers many great styles to get you started on your new fitness journey. Some women’s shoes that are specially designed for walking are the Grace, Diane, Refresh, Victory and Spirit. For men, think about the Performance, Winner, Gordon, Jack and Endurance. These shoes are all quite supportive yet offer excellent shock absorption and cushioning, making for an overall comfortable walking experience.
Walking is the first step to living a healthy lifestyle. Walking feels great, you can do it with a friend, it’s fun and, best of all, it’s free!
The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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Compession Wear F.A.Q.
Written by: Mallory Lor, C.Ped
What is Compression Wear?
Compression wear is used to help improve blood flow in the veins of your legs. Compression gives your legs a “hug”, so your veins don’t have to work as hard. The best compression wear has graduated compression, which means it’s built to the natural shape of your leg with the firmest compression at the ankle that reduces as it goes up your leg. All of Dr. Comfort’s® compression wear is designed as graduated compression with top quality materials and a large variety of fashionable designs.
Who Should Wear Compression?
Most people can benefit from compression wear. Here are some common reasons why people may use compression:
- Sitting or standing for long periods of time
- During pregnancy and postpartum
- To help reduce swelling
- While traveling on an airplane
- To help with achy, tired feeling legs
- To prevent DVT and embolisms
If you have any serious medical conditions concerning arterial disease, please consult your physician before using compression.
How Do I Know Which Type to Buy?
Compression wear can come in different materials, compression levels, sizing and heights which can often make the purchase process confusing and overwhelming.
Compression Levels: The biggest question people have about compression wear is how to know which level of compression they should buy. The amount of pressure compression wear provides is measured in mmHg. Here’s a simple guide to help you determine which level is best for you:
Compression Sizing: The best compression wear comes sized to your body measurements, not your shoe size. You will need a soft measuring tape or a piece of string that can be measured with a ruler. Dr. Comfort® also sells compression wear tape measures.
- Ankle measurement: Measure the narrowest part of the ankle, above the ankle bone
- Calf measurement: Measure the widest part of the calf
- Thigh measurement (for thigh high and pantyhose): Measure the widest part of the thigh
Tips: Measure early in the day when swelling will be at its lowest. If your measurements fall within two different size ranges, go with the larger size.
Compression Heights: Should I get knee high, thigh high or pantyhose? This is usually a personal preference. Some may want knee high for everyday use and pantyhose for dressier occasions. Others may want the compression to go higher than just the knee and prefer to wear thigh highs or pantyhose as their everyday option.
- Knee High: Most popular among all ages, available in many materials, patterns and colors
- Thigh High: Most styles come with silicone grippers at the top to keep these in place
- Pantyhose: Look just like nylons or tights but with all the benefits of compression
Where Can I Buy Compression Wear?
Dr. Comfort® sells compression wear through drcomfort.com and offers free shipping. Much of Dr. Comfort’s® compression wear is made at our company owned manufacturing facility in North Carolina, USA.
Click here to look at what Dr. Comfort® has to offer.
The contents of this blog were independently prepared and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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American Diabetes Association® and Dr. Comfort® Team Up
The American Diabetes Association announces a new partnership to advance consumer resources for successful foot care
The American Diabetes Association® (ADA), the nation’s leading volunteer health organization, announced a new partnership with Dr. Comfort, to provide foot care resources on an ADA platform in a journey-driven experience for those living with diabetes and their caregivers.
Dr. Comfort is the national sponsor of Living with Diabetes: Foot Care & Amputation. The Foot Care & Amputation section of the platform leads each user to learn to care for their feet, understand foot conditions and complications, ways to stay physically active, and more. Individuals living with diabetes and their caregivers can access this platform by answering a few simple questions to help guide them on their journey to reach the tools, resources, and education they need for successful foot care.
Every four minutes in America, a limb is amputated due to diabetes. This statistic is even more shocking when you consider that amputation is almost completely preventable. Education and resources are vital for those living with diabetes and this partnership will help arm millions of people with the information they need to prevent foot care complications.
“The ADA is working hard to help the over 34 million Americans with diabetes deal with and overcome the unique health complications they face on a daily basis such as foot complications. Through this personalized diabetes journey experience, we hope to meet them where they are to deliver the resources and education they need to thrive,” said Jacqueline Sebany, Chief Marketing and Digital Officer for the American Diabetes Association.
The journey was developed to deliver information to those living with diabetes based on self-identified need and interest, as well as where they are in their diabetes journey.
Click here to read the full press release: https://diabetes.org/newsroom/press-releases/2021/american-diabetes-association-dr-comfort-team-up-give-millions-living-with-diabetes-needed-resoruces-prevent-foot-complications
“Dr. Comfort is proud to continue to be at the forefront of helping people with diabetes live fuller lives through our partnership with the ADA.” – Raj Subramonian, SVP/GM Dr. Comfort
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