Resources
Research
In 1989, the first study using a specific type of padded sock was published. That study documented the benefits of those padded socks in reducing pressure in the insensitive diabetic foot. This research was followed by seven other key studies that confirmed the benefits of these particular padded socks for preventing blisters, reducing pressure and pain, and enhancing circulation. These studies are summarized below.
IPFH now refers to the padded socks, donated by Thorlo that were used in these pivotal studies, as clinically-tested padded socks. The Institute continues to fund and sponsor research that enables us to learn more about the feet and footwear for both preventive and therapeutic purposes.
Heather J. Murray, DPOD M, Aristidis Veves, M.D.; Matthew J. Young, M.D.; Douglas H. Richie, DPM; A.J.M. Boulton, MD. American Group for the Study of Experimental Hosiery in the Diabetic Foot. Published in Diabetes Care, vol. 16, number 3, August 1993.
Authors: Dr. Alice Brown, Pharm D.; Dr. Jack Brown, D.O. Published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association - March, 1995.
Authors: Shawn Flot, MPT; Von Hill, MPT; Wesley Yamada, DPM; Thomas McPoil, PhD, PT, ATC; Mark Cornwall, PHD, PT. Published in The Lower Extremity Vol. 2, No. 3; September, 1995.
Authors: Lauren Griffith, Parminder Raina, Hongmei Wu, Bin Zhu, Liza Stathokostas; Published in Age and Ageing, November 2010; Vol. 39; pp. 738–745.
Carol B. Feldman, MSN, RN, CDE and Ellen D. Davis, MS, RN, CDE; published in Diabetes Spectrum, vol.14 no.2, 2001