Mild Compression Sock for Control of Lower Extremity Edema in Individuals With Diabetes

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is commonly associated with diabetes. Clinicians are often reluctant to apply compressive stockings to patients with diabetes and swollen legs due to fear of exacerbating the symptoms of PAD. The study sock is a newly formulated sock that offers mild compression (18-25mmHg). The sock is made especially for the diabetic patient who suffers from concomitant lower extremity edema. Eighty patients with diabetes and lower extremity edema will be recruited. Upon ensuring enrollment criteria are met, baseline edema (as measured by circumference of foot, ankle and calf), ankle brachial index (ABI), skin perfusion pressure, and cutaneous fluid level (as measured by MoistureMeter) will be assessed. Subjects will then be provided four pairs of socks. Subjects will be randomized in a 1:1 distribution to receive either the mild compression diabetic socks or a standard diabetic sock. They will return for four weekly follow up visits. Additionally a sub-set of 30 subjects will be monitored for changes in physical activity pre and post sock usage. Physical activity monitors will be used to assess daily physical activity for 48hrs prior to receiving the socks and after wearing the socks for four weeks an additional 48hrs will be monitored.