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Cushioning for the central and plantar zone of the forefoot, integrated into the body of the sock, could reduce excess pressures in that zone. The objective of this study was to verify the capacity of a sock with a cushioning element to reduce forefoot plantar pressures relative to the same sock model without that element. Dynamic plantar pressures were measured in a sample of 38 participants (25 women and 13 men) using the FootScan plate system following the two-step protocol. Measurements were made in three situations selected at random - barefoot, wearing control socks, and wearing the experimental cushioned socks. Maximum pressures were analysed in seven zones of the forefoot (hallux, lesser toes, and 1st to 5th metatarsal heads). The zone of greatest plantar pressure was in all situations located under the 3rd metatarsal head. The pressure was lower (p = 0.009) under the 2nd metatarsal head with the experimental sock (10.2 ± 3.1 N/cm

To evaluate the effects of textured insole socks on balance, gait parameters, and fall risk in older adults at risk of falling.Thirty older adults at risk of falls participated and were randomly al...

Background Operational and training requirements of soldiers necessitate prolonged use of occlusive footwear which makes them susceptible to Tinea pedis and affects their performance. This study assesses copper oxide–impregnated socks as a treatment modality in soldiers with Tinea pedis. Methods Three hundred serving soldiers with Tinea pedis were randomly divided in two groups of 150 cases each. One group was supplied with 02 pairs of polyester copper oxide–impregnated socks and the second group was treated with oral terbinafine 250mg /day for two weeks and topical terbinafine twice a day for three weeks. Five end points viz. scaling, erythema, fissuring, vesicular eruptions and itching were monitored using the visual analogue score (VAS) weekly for 03 weeks. Results Copper oxide socks helped in reducing all the end points as assessed by VAS. The group treated with terbinafine showed better response; however test socks were as efficacious as oral and topical terbinafine in controlling fissuring and vesiculation. Safety profile of the copper impregnated socks was comparable with the conventional treatment. Conclusion Copper-impregnated socks are effective and safe in treating Tinea pedis. They may also have prophylactic role in tinea pedis in susceptible serving soldiers deployed at remote locations in different terrain and weather conditions.

Hospital inpatient falls, especially of older adult patients, can result in injury and death and generate high costs. A new technology, PUP ® (Patient Is Up) Smart Socks, combines sensors and geolocation in socks with a wireless platform. To determine whether these socks prevent falls of patients with high fall risk, we performed a clinical trial at one hospital, and an observational study at two other hospitals. In the clinical trial, patients spent 1,694 patient-days wearing the socks, reducing falls from 4 to 0 per 1,000 patient-days ( p < 0.01). In the observational study, patients spent 2,286 patient-days wearing the socks, reducing falls from 4 to 1.3 per 1,000 patient-days ( p < 0.05). The new technology resulted in a significant reduction in fall rates among patients with high fall risk and may greatly reduce inpatient fall-related injury and death and their associated costs. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47 (10), 37–43.]

Nowadays people are willing to self-monitor their health status, and when they do not feel well, they tend to ask Dr. Google for a diagnosis (over a third of adults go online to analyze or look for information about a health condition [1]). People trust technology, often more than physicians; smartphone and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are undoubtedly making innovative monitoring and diagnostic devices rapidly progress, so much that it seems that the future of medicine is in smartphones, where apps may run and to which devices can be connected, hence supporting mobile health (m-Health) [2]. In addition to smartwatches and wrist-worn devices that are surely the most common wearable devices [3], [4], there are also connected wearable clothes [5], socks [6], rings, or glasses-type wearables [7].

BACKGROUND Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common early postoperative finding in patients who undergo major surgery, and it might delay early mobilization, which is the main building block of modern perioperative care programs. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of using thigh-length elastic pressure socks in patients who undergo spinal surgery in development of OH at first mobilization after surgery. METHODS The study was a randomized-controlled intervention study. A total of 70 patients who underwent spinal surgery were included in the study. The patients were allocated randomly to the intervention group (n = 35) who used thigh-length elastic pressure socks and the control group (n = 35) which received no intervention other than routine nursing care. RESULTS It was found in the study that 2.9% of the patients in the intervention group developed OH during the first mobilization after the surgery, and 48.6% of the patients in the control group developed OH at first mobilization. The patients in the intervention group were found to have the risk ratio (RR): 0.06 times less probability of developing OH than the patients in the control group (95% confidence interval [CI]:0.01-0.42). The OH symptoms were lower in the patients in the intervention group. CONCLUSION It was found as a result of the study that using thigh-length elastic pressure socks in spinal surgery patients reduced OH development and symptoms at first mobilization after the surgery.

This study evaluated the effect of socks (different in fiber type) and the effect of not wearing a sock on perceptions of thermal comfort in relation to changes in foot skin temperature and shoe microclimate (temperature and humidity) during rest and exercise. Ten females completed five trials on separate occasions. Four socks (cotton, wool, polyester, Coolmax) and no sock were evaluated. Trials were conducted at 23°C, 50% relative humidity and consisted of rest (10 min seated), treadmill running (40 min, 7.5 km·h−1) and recovery (15 min seated). Foot skin temperature and shoe microclimate were measured at seven sites on the right foot. Foot skin hydration was measured at nine foot sites. Perceptual responses were recorded. Foot thermo-physiological and foot perceptual responses were similar for all sock conditions ( p > 0.05). Similar foot thermo-physiological responses were also observed between the sock and no sock conditions ( p > 0.05). Interestingly, however, not wearing a sock resulted in greater perceptions of foot wetness, stickiness and discomfort ( p

Background Adequate foot care and regular foot examinations along with optimal glycemic control are effective strategies to prevent foot ulceration. Aim The aim of this study was to describe the patterns of foot self-care practice among diabetic patients attending an ambulatory clinic. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the ambulatory clinic of Jimma Medical Center. A consecutive sampling technique was used. The data were analyzed by SPSS version 20 and descriptive statistics were used to describe the findings. Results A total of 370 diabetic patients (55.9% male and 68.4% type 2) were interviewed. The mean (±SD) age of the patients was 46.47±13.63 years. Over one-third (35.7%) of the patients had a previous history of foot ulcer. The majority of the patients self-inspect (92.5%) and wash (82.7%) their foot at least daily, respectively. In this study, 12.2% of the patients never inspected the inside of their footwear before putting them on and 42.4% of the patients never dry between their toes after washing. Most (63.5%) of patients never used moisturizing creams to lubricate the dry skin. In this study, 23.0% and 27.6% of the patients walk in sandals/slippers and in shoes without socks most of the time, respectively. Only 27.3% of the patients changed their socks daily. Majority (78.4% and 86.5%) of the patients never walk barefoot around and outside their house, respectively, and 75.1% of the patients never put their feet near the fire. Conclusion Diabetic patients were not adequately self-inspect and wash their foot at least daily, dry after wash and moisturize the dry skin. They walk barefoot, in sandals/slippers, and in shoes without socks. Therefore, clinicians should counsel every diabetic patient about the importance of foot self-inspection, foot hygiene, and the risk of walking barefoot, wearing sandals/slippers, and shoes without socks at every follow-up visit.

The use of a new generation chemical fibers with various functional additives offers new possibilities for the development of advanced (multi)functional textile products. Such compounds as phase change materials (PCMs), metals (like cooper, silver), also natural or chemical insect repellents, FIR emitting ceramic particles and etc. incorporated into fibres’ structure are essential for development of knitted fabrics directly contacting to the skin with effective thermoregulation and such protective properties as: antimicrobial, antistatic, repellence against blood sucking insects. The main parts of socks investigated were knitted in plain plated single jersey pattern. The 3-ply twisted yarns of new structures were used in the outer layer of socks. Yarns were made by using single yarns with PCMs, insect repellent permethrin, ceramic and silver additives containing fibres (Cell Solution® Clima, Cell Solution® Protection, Resistex® Silver). The inner layer of socks was made of polyester (PES) 3-ply twisted yarns with different number of filaments resulted in different structures of socks’ fabric. Based on all obtained thermoregulating and protective characteristics of investigated different knitted fabric structures of socks, the optimal knitted socks were selected. The obtained results of investigations are significant for the development of other knitted fabrics worn next to the skin.

Zadow, EK, Edwards, KH, Kitic, CM, Fell, JW, Adams, MJ, Singh, I, Kundur, A, Johnstone, ANB, Crilly, J, Bulmer, AC, Halson, SL, and, and Wu, SSX. Compression socks reduce running-induced intestinal damage. J Strength Cond Res 36(9): 2461-2464, 2022-Exercise is associated with a reduction in splanchnic blood flow that leads to the disruption of intestinal epithelium integrity, contributing to exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome. Strategies that promote intestinal blood flow during exercise may reduce intestinal damage, which may be advantageous for subsequent recovery and performance. This study aimed to explore if exercise-associated intestinal damage was influenced by wearing compression garments, which may improve central blood flow. Subjects were randomly allocated to wear compression socks ( n = 23) or no compression socks (control, n = 23) during a marathon race. Blood samples were collected 24 hours before and immediately after marathon and analyzed for intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) concentration as a marker of intestinal damage. The magnitude of increase in postmarathon plasma I-FABP concentration was significantly greater in control group (107%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 72-428%) when compared with runners wearing compression socks (38%; 95% CI, 20-120%; p = 0.046; d = 0.59). Wearing compression socks during a marathon run reduced exercise-associated intestinal damage. Compression socks may prove an effective strategy to minimize the intestinal damage component of exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome.

The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of blisters on the foot during hiking and the factors associated with this condition.A cross-sectional observational comparative study was conducted of 315 patients treated at two hostels, located on the Way of Saint James, in northern Spain. The study participants were interviewed and clinically examined to obtain sociodemographic and clinical variables. The variables recorded concerned the type of terrain covered (asphalt or dirt trails), the weight carried (backpack), the footwear used (weight, type, impermeability), the type of socks worn and the hydration of the skin obtained. The inclusion criteria were at least 18 years and to walk at least 20 km in the last five days.74% (n = 233) of the hikers presented a bullous lesion on the foot after completing several stages of hiking. The most frequent locations were the first or second metatarsal head and the fifth toe. Logistic regression showed that risk factors for the appearance of blistering were the number of kilometres walked on asphalt (p = .001 [95% CI (1.019-1.064)]) and having wet socks at the end of the day (p = . 006 [95% CI (1.286-4.479)]). The protective factors identified were walking on a dirt, grass or gravel surface (p .001 [95% CI (0.982- 0.995)]) and using customised plantar orthoses (p = .001 [95% CI (0.085) - 0.512)]).The type of terrain is a determining factor in the appearance of blisters. Walking on a dirt trail reduces the risk. Using custom made insoles and controlling humidity are other factors that should be considered as preventive measures.

Objectives: During life, many factors cause functional impairment and imbalance in body balance process. One of these disabilities and functional impairment is Parkinsonchr('39')s Disease. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of attentional instructions and exercise with resistance socks on the static and dynamic balance of Parkinsonchr('39')s patients. Methods & Materials: In order to investigate this, 25 females (Mean±SD: 62.20±2.31) were purposefully selected among the patients with Parkinsonchr('39')s disease with over 60 years of age in Shahrood City and were randomly assigned into five experimental groups: 1. External attentional instruction group along with exercise with resistance socks; 2. Internal attentional instruction group along with exercise with resistance socks; 3. External attentional instruction group along with exercise without resistance socks; 4. Internal attentional instruction group along with resistance exercise without socks; and 5. Resistance exercises group without socks and without justifying instructions. The training protocol of present study was 90 minutes, three times a week for 8 weeks in a state of exercises in water for each of the five groups of resistance and non-resistance training. The static and dynamic balance of participants was recorded in the pretest-posttest phases. Results: The findings of One-way Covariance Analysis (ANCOVA) showed that the external attentional instruction group along with exercise with resistance socks performed better than other groups in the static equilibrium index, only in the open eye conditions (P= 0.04, η2= 0.31). These findings were repeated in the dynamic equilibrium index (P= 0.02, η2= 0.44). Conclusion: According to the findings of present study, it is suggested to coaches and therapists to use external attentional instructions along with exercise with resistance socks during their training and modifying interventions in the water to improve the patientchr('39')s static and dynamic equilibrium. However, future supplementary studies are suggested.

Kakato-tsurutsuru (Kt) socks have been selling for almost 30 years in Japan. Wearers claim they improve heel dryness despite no scientific evidence. We investigated the effects of Kt socks on heel dryness by questionnaire, clinical scores and non-invasive skin measurements. In a double-blind, randomized cross-over study, 10 healthy volunteers wore control or Kt socks over 2 weeks in sequence for 4 weeks. Skin hydration and evaporation of the medial and dorsal heel were measured before and every week during the trial. Clinical evaluations of desquamation and cracked skin were scored by a dermatologist. A visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaire of comfort, sock climate humidity and skin dryness was conducted. The VAS of comfort was significantly higher in Kt than controls. Average Δskin dryness in control and Kt groups was -1.63 and 2.22, respectively, showing a significant improvement. In the clinical findings of the dorsal side of the heel, Δdesquamation and Δcracked skin scores were significantly decreased and Δstratum corneum hydration significantly increased in Kt compared with controls. Kt socks may retain evaporated sweat with components of natural moisturizing factors, supporting the water-holding ability of the heel stratum corneum. These findings suggest that Kt socks may improve heel skin dryness.

This paper aims to raise awareness of cyberbullying and online safety among health practitioners and provide some useful advice and key messages to help facilitate conversations with children and young people about internet use. The paper also discusses the role of ‘SOCKS’ (Stamp Out Cyberbullying & Keep Safe), a novel teaching workshop aimed at primary school children, which aims to generate awareness and understanding before they become regularly exposed to the dangers of the online world.

This study aimed to investigate the differences in the interface pressure applied by sports and medical compression socks and assess the pressure gradient profile. Sixty (30 male, 30 female) national representative athletes were fitted with both medical grade and sports compression socks in a counterbalanced order. Interface pressure was assessed using a Kikuhime pressure monitor at three different landmarks on the lower leg to better understand absolute pressure application and pressure gradient profile. Medical grade compression socks exerted a small, yet significantly higher mean pressure across the three landmarks (28.8 ± 4.4 mmHg) than sports compression socks (26.3 ± 4.0 mmHg, p

The material components of the sports sock provide; impact protection, injury avoidance, anti-frictional, absorption and antibacterial properties. The quality of socks can vary depending on many factors. These can be summarized as the type andproperties of the used yarns, knitting conditions and machine properties, finishing method and the used finishing materials andthe form giving operation applied on socks. With the growing demand for more com-fortable, healthier and environmentallyfriendly products, efforts in research and development in the textile industry have focused on the utilization of renewable andbiodegradable resources. This study comprised an experimental investigation to determine the functional performance properties and anti-microbial behavior of socks manufactured using not only traditional cotton or polyester yarns but also yarns made of new kinds of eco-friendly fibers like bamboo. This paper studies the influence of different sports socks compositions on the functional performance properties and anti-microbial behavior of knitted fabrics made of two types of structures ( Rib- Jersey)knitted from elstane yarns with eco- friendly fibers effect. The results demonstrated that all tested properties influenced by bothmaterial and knitted structure parameters. These findings are an important tool in the design of healthy comfortable sports socks.

Multipath TCP (MPTCP) is an evolution of TCP, capable of using multiple network paths to enhance resilience to network handovers. However, Server-side modification is the key challenge for deployment of MPTCP on a large scale. Therefore, a proxy-based design that uses SOCKSv5 over MPTCP was proposed. Though MPTCP enhances the download experience, it also impacts the browsing experience and Page Loading Time (PLT) due to additional SOCKSv5 protocol signaling overhead. On the other hand, to improve the performance of TCP, Google proposed QUIC (Quick UDP Internet Connection), which addresses the network handover resilience. QUIC also faces server modification as a major challenge. In this article, we propose a novel design of SOCKS over QUIC (QSOCKS), which improves browsing experience while enhancing reliability. QSOCKS ensures 0RTT/1RTT connection time, thereby improving the Page Loading Time (PLT) and Video Loading Time (VLT). We evaluated the performance of QSOCKS through live experiments on the top websites of various web properties located in different regions, using Samsung S9 smartphones. Moreover, we evaluated our proposal for file download scenario in both homogeneous and heterogeneous Wi-Fi & cellular environment. The users not only benefit from the inherent advantages of QUIC but are also privileged with a better browsing experience.

Background: Published literature reports significant improvements in pathological conditions, such as pain, blood dyscrasias, and cellulite, after using topical occlusive accessories containing par...

The benefits of exercise have been widely recognised for a long time. Exercise increases heart rate, in turn facilitating the effective flow of oxygen and blood around the body and enabling the muscles to use this oxygen and blood in economically beneficial ways. Dr Hideo Nakamura, Department of Health Promotion and Sports Science, Osaka Electro-Communication University, Japan, is exploring the importance of lower limb compression socks for measuring autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity. ANS is a key regulator of the cardiovascular system and helps regulate heart rate and blood pressure. Nakamura is filling a research gap as there is little scientific consensus on the effects. A key focus for Nakamura and his team is on the significance of compression socks for sports to measure ANS activity with heart rate variability during exercise. Nakamura is building on previous studies utilising Tone-Entropy analysis, which is effective as it has high reproducibility and high reliability. Using this method, the researchers will explore mental stress, effects of exercise, pharmacological effects and meditation, among other things. The team used a bicycle ergometer to observe heart rate and ANS activity and found that rhythmic exercise could promote improved blood flow in the veins through compression of the lower limbs. Ultimately, the team hopes to define the subtle differences in parasympathetic nervous activity in individuals wearing compression socks.

There are growing demands for daily gait-monitoring smart insoles which are light, soft, and comfortable both in the general population interested in sports and people with disabilities, such as children with cerebral palsy or Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Currently available technologies are basically battery-powered systems, which are bulky, heavy, and not ideal for in-home and everyday use. This study introduces RFInsole, a battery-less smart insole based on RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), tracking the sequence of foot pressures within a stance. RFInsole utilizes passive RFID tags and push button switches, so that the foot pressure can activate the tags at each location. Soft, thin, affordable, and simple structure of the device open broad possibilities to implement the same system into lighter and soft applications such as socks or pressure-sensing garments.

BACKGROUND The benefits associated with sports compression garments are thought to be closely related to enhanced blood flow. However, findings are equivocal, possibly due to heterogeneity in the techniques used for measuring blood flow, the garment types used, and the pressures applied. This study combined Doppler ultrasound and near-infrared spectroscopy technologies to provide the first comprehensive assessment of the effects of 3 sports compression garment types on markers of venous return and muscle blood flow at rest. METHODS Resting lower-limb blood flow measures (markers of venous return, muscle blood flow, and muscle oxygenation) of 22 elite, junior, male basketball players (age = 17.2 ± 0.9 years, mean ± SD) were assessed in 4 separate conditions: no compression (CON), compression tights (TIGHTS), compression shorts (SHORTS), and compression socks (SOCKS). Markers of venous return (cross-sectional area, time-averaged mean and peak blood flow velocity, and venous blood flow) were measured via Doppler ultrasound at the popliteal and common femoral veins. Muscle blood flow and muscle oxygenation were measured in the gastrocnemius medialis and vastus lateralis using near-infrared spectroscopy. RESULTS Popliteal markers of venous return were higher in TIGHTS compared to CON (p < 0.01) and SHORTS (p < 0.01), with SOCKS values higher compared with CON (p < 0.05). Common femoral vein markers of venous return were higher for all conditions compared to CON (p < 0.05), with TIGHTS values also higher compared to SOCKS (p < 0.05). Gastrocnemius medialis blood flow was higher for TIGHTS compared to CON (p = 0.000), SOCKS (p = 0.012), and SHORTS (p = 0.000), with SOCKS higher compared to SHORTS (p = 0.046). Vastus lateralis blood flow was higher for TIGHTS compared to CON (p = 0.028) and SOCKS (p = 0.019), with SHORTS also higher compared to CON (p = 0.012) and SOCKS (p = 0.005). Gastrocnemius medialis oxygenation was higher for TIGHTS compared to CON (p = 0.003), SOCKS (p = 0.033), and SHORTS (p = 0.003), with SOCKS higher compared to CON (p = 0.044) and SHORTS (p = 0.032). Vastus lateralis oxygenation was higher for TIGHTS compared to CON (p = 0.020) and SOCKS (p = 0.006). CONCLUSION Markers of venous return, muscle blood flow, and muscle oxygenation are increased with sports compression garments. TIGHTS are most effective, potentially because of the larger body area compressed.

BACKGROUND 3D-printed insoles are widely used. This study was conducted to test a customized three-dimensional (3D)-printed heel support insole based on arch lift and to investigate whether the pressure distribution on the sole was improved while maintaining foot function. MATERIAL AND METHODS The design was based on a 3D plantar contour scanning modeling technique. Thirty healthy male participants walked along a 10-m track under 3 self-controlled interventions. A customized 3D-printed heel support insole based on arch lift was inserted into the socks for the experimental condition A. For condition B, a customized 3D-printed heel-supporting insole was inserted into the socks, and a standardized pre-made heel-supporting insole was inserted into the socks as a control (condition C). We used the Footscan® pressure plate to measure the plantar parameters in the forefoot contact and foot flange phases in each condition. RESULTS Compared with condition B and the control condition, the peak pressure under the heel was significantly lower in condition A (P0.05), and the peak pressure in the midfoot region was not significantly increased (P0.05). CONCLUSIONS The biomechanical properties of the customized 3D-printed heel support are better than those of the traditional heel support insole, especially when there is a need for an additional increase in heel height. Patients do not decrease midfoot motion function while using this customized insole.

Context:Compression socks have become increasingly popular with athletes due to perceived enhancement of exercise performance and recovery. However, research examining the efficacy of compression socks to reduce exercise-associated muscle damage has been equivocal, with few direct measurements of markers of muscle damage.Objective:To examine the influence of compression socks worn during a marathon on creatine kinase (CK) levels.Design:A randomized controlled trial.Setting:2013 Hartford Marathon, Hartford, CT.Participants:Adults (n = 20) randomized to control (CONTROL; n = 10) or compression sock (SOCK; n = 10) groups.Main Outcome Measures:Blood samples were collected 24 hours before, immediately after, and 24 hours following the marathon for the analysis of CK, a marker of muscle damage.Results:Baseline CK levels did not differ between CONTROL (89.3 [41.2] U/L) and SOCK (100.0 [56.2] U/L) (P = .63). Immediately following the marathon (≤1 h), CK increased 273% from baseline (P P = .60 for time × group). The day following the marathon (≤24 h), CK further increased 1094% from baseline (P P = .53 for time × group). These similar trends persisted despite controlling for potential covariates such as age, body mass index, and race finishing time (Ps > .29).Conclusions:Compression socks worn during a marathon do not appear to mitigate objectively measured markers of muscle damage immediately following and 24 hours after a marathon.

Socks are the clothing preserving the foot in thermal neutrality and preventing foot from blister generating. The development of socks has been diversified like the type, materials, and function, etc. Socks with good quality are conducive to prevent foot disease or smelly odor from foot. The wearing comfort of socks can be affected by the fabric properties of air permeability. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between the fabric parameters and air permeability of knitted socks fabric. The ventilation of socks fabric was measured by the KES-F8 automatic air permeability tester. It was found that the air permeability of fabric was negatively proportional to the content of cotton, yarn count and thickness, before washing. Meanwhile, washing was found to increase the air permeability.

Background A dynamic postural stability deficit has been suggested to be present in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Interventions to improve postural control in individuals with CAI have been reported, but they required a long period of and compliance with interventions. Purpose To examine the effect of novel ankle-realigning socks on dynamic postural stability in individuals with CAI using the star excursion balance test (SEBT). Study design Case-control study. Methods Twenty-eight control and 22 subjects with CAI (who were tested in both barefoot and with socks) were enrolled. The weight-bearing ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DF-ROM) and SEBT were measured in the control group, the barefoot CAI group, and the CAI with socks group. In addition, subjective ankle instability during SEBT was measured using a visual analog scale (0 - 100). Results DF-ROM was 48.3 ± 7.4 o in the control group, 43.3 ± 8.0 o in the barefoot CAI group, and 45.7 ± 6.8 o in the CAI with socks group. DF-ROM was significantly less in the barefoot CAI group than in the control group. The SEBT scores were significantly less in the barefoot CAI group than in the control group in all directions. The SEBT score was significantly larger in the CAI with socks group than in the barefoot CAI group in the posteromedial, posterior, and posterolateral directions. In addition, there were no significant differences between the control group and the CAI with socks group in six directions. Conclusion Wearing the novel ankle-realigning socks immediately improved dynamic postural stability as measured by the SEBT and subjective ankle instability in individuals with CAI. Level of evidence Level 3b.

The functionality of textiles can be complimented by using a wide variety of modification technologies. This study focuses on textile modification with sol-gel technology as a part of smart sock prototype development. Zinc acetate dehydrate (ZAD) is integrated in sol synthesis and used as modifier thus improving modified cotton yarn mechanical properties and also can prolong time between washing, taking into account modifiers antimicrobial properties. Four hanks of pure cotton yarns with length of 300 m, where modified with silica-based sol with 7,5 wt% ZAD as a modifier. As a part of this study tensile strength and elongation of yarn was determined and changes in liner density were observed. Average yarn linear density increases by 19 % and linear density for knitted samples increases by 2,6 %. Therefore, yarn strength for 80 % of modified samples shows mean value of 2,32 N, that is 17 % higher than unmodified samples.

Background Gait monitoring is important for rehabilitation but clinic-based measurements provide a brief snapshot of gait patterns. Many consumer-based activity monitors facilitate continuous gait monitoring in daily life but may be subject to measurement errors. This study examines a novel consumer-based activity monitor that is worn on the feet, and therefore not susceptible to inaccurately detecting upper body movements as gait. Objective To evaluate the clinical validity of Sensoria smart socks, a commercially available wireless gait monitoring technology. Design A method comparison study between the GAITRite, a criterion standard for clinical gait monitoring, and Sensoria smart socks. Setting Outpatient rehabilitation clinic. Participants Thirty individuals capable of supervised ambulation, with or without assistive devices, were recruited through the use of flyers and emails. Data were analyzed for 29 participants. Fifteen participants had no neurologic diagnosis. Fourteen participants had a neurologic diagnosis that could result in gait impairments. Diagnoses included Parkinson disease, stroke, brain injury, developmental delay, and acoustic neuroma. Methods Participants completed three gait trials with simultaneous measurements by the smart socks and the GAITRite. Main outcome measures Measurements of step count, cadence, and velocity were compared between the two gait monitoring systems. Results There was no significant difference in step count measurements between the two systems. Although there was a significant difference in cadence measurements for the total sample group, the mean difference fell within the GAITRite Standard Error of Measurement. There was no significant difference in velocity measurements for the total sample group and the mean difference fell within the GAITRite Standard Error of Measurement. Conclusion These results support the clinical validity of the smart socks for measuring step number and velocity. Further investigation is warranted to determine the efficacy and clinical value of the smart socks system for measuring cadence and for monitoring gait over longer distances outside the clinic. Level of evidence III.

Broatch, JR, Bishop, DJ, Zadow, EK, and Halson, S. Effects of sports compression socks on performance, physiological, and hematological alterations after long-haul air travel in elite female volleyballers. J Strength Cond Res 33(2): 492-501, 2019-The purpose of this investigation was to assess the merit of sports compression socks in minimizing travel-induced performance, physiological, and hematological alterations in elite female volleyball athletes. Twelve elite female volleyballers (age, 25 +/- 2 years) traveled from Canberra (Australia) to Manila (Philippines), and were assigned to 1 of 2 conditions; compression socks (COMP, n = 6) worn during travel or a passive control (CON, n = 6). Dependent measures included countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, subjective ratings of well-being, cardiovascular function, calf girth, and markers of blood clotting, collected before (-24 hours, CMJ; -12 hours, all measures), during (+6.5 and +9 hours, subjective ratings and cardiovascular function), and after (+12 hours, all measures except CMJ; +24 hours and +48 hours, CMJ) travel. When compared with CON, small-to-large effects were observed for COMP to improve heart rate (+9 hours), oxygen saturation (+6.5 hours and +9 hours), alertness (+6.5 hours), fatigue (+6.5 hours), muscle soreness (+6.5 hours and +9 hours), and overall health (+6.5 hours) during travel. After travel, small-to-moderate effects were observed for COMP to improve systolic blood pressure (+12 hours), right calf girth (+12 hours), CMJ height (+24 hours), mean velocity (+24 hours), and relative power (+48 hours), compared with CON. COMP had no effect on the markers of blood clotting. This study suggests that compression socks are beneficial in combating the stressors imposed by long-haul travel in elite athletes, and may have merit for individuals frequenting long-haul travel or competing soon after flying.

The objective was to determine whether changes in indicators of skin health among participants suffering from diabetes mellitus could be attributable to the type of sock worn (fiber content, structure). Changes in skin health over time (e.g. temperature, skin hardness, transepidermal water loss, stratum corneum hydration) can indicate improvement or deterioration, and these may be related to socks worn. Socks of different structure (single jersey, terry), and of fiber content (merino wool, cotton) were worn over a period of 22 weeks by participants suffering from diabetes mellitus. Each participant was their own control: change over time in skin hardness, stratum corneum hydration, transepidermal water loss and temperatures were monitored. Properties of the sock fabrics were measured as new and after use to determine effects of wear. Limited evidence of improved skin health was attributable to socks composed primarily of wool.

Background This is the first study to determine whether nonskid slipper socks in contact with the hospital floor and worn into bed contaminate bed linen. Purpose The main purpose of the study was to determine whether contamination of hospital linen occurred with bacteria transferred from the soles of nonskid slipper socks that have touched the floor. Methods This study mimicked real patients walking on a hospital floor wearing slipper socks and getting back into bed with the slipper socks on. Swab samples were collected from the surfaces of the hospital floor, nonskid slipper sock bottoms, and bed linen in 2 Midwestern hospitals. From the samples, bacterial isolates were identified and tested for antibiotic resistance. Results Isolates obtained from the samples were identified on all 3 surfaces at both hospitals, indicating spread of the bacteria from floor to the bed linen via the nonskid slipper socks. Antibiotic sensitivity test revealed that a significant number of isolates collected were resistant to at least 2 antibiotics tested. Conclusion This study demonstrates cross-contamination of bed linen with potentially pathogenic bacteria present on the hospital floor via contact with patient-worn nonskid slipper socks. A simple practice change regarding the wearing of slipper socks could play an important role in preventing pathogen transfer to the bed linen. Awareness of the likelihood of hand contamination after touching the sock bottoms that have come in contact with the hospital floor should also be considered.

When we obtain textiles during archaeological explorations (crypts, settlement sites), we do not realize in what forms they hadfunctioned before they were deposited to the ground. In most cases their functions are identified as a result of conservation treatments, andthis is the case with the objects described here – silk textiles and kontusz sashes, which belonged to the most expensive elements of the Polish male costumes worn from the 17th century till the 1840s. Therefore, their longevity in various forms is not surprising for researchers. They functioned in families from 40 to 60 years. As they were used for long, and were getting damaged in the course of time, they were repaired carefully, only fragments of them were frequently deposited to the ground with a dead body (frequently cut along its length), and well preserved fragments were donated in last wills to descendants or the Church for liturgical vestments and accessories. Apart from sashes, all kinds of garment were precious not only for heirs, but also for developing paper manufacturing. The article presents problem of secondary use, both silk and woollen textiles, which appear in archaeological material rather rarely.

Telemedicine consists in the delivery of health care services, where patients and providers are separated by distance. Telemonitoring facilities play an important role in remote assistance programs, particularly in assisting patients suffering from chronic afflictions, such as phlebopathic diseases (e.g. chronic venous disease and diabetic foot). When these pathologies worsen, complications can be serious. In fact, foot deformities lead to variations of plantar load, formation of ulcers and, in the worst case, to amputation. Consequently, these pathologies cause huge expenses for the health care system. We propose a framework for screening and early detection of phlebopathic diseases insurgence, based on dynamic tests for functional assessment where patients wear sensorized socks. Socks used in this study integrate force and inertial sensors to provide information on plantar pressures and person’s movement. We show results of a feasibility study including 42 patients, with a balance of 21 healthy patients and 21 with phlebopathic diseases. Data gathered from wearables were automatically elaborated through machine learning techniques in order to obtain a binary classifier identifying whether or not a patient shows pathological gait. Results show that our best classifier has high positive predictive value and high sensitivity, with F1-score equal to 92.1%.

Vascular diseases have a strong impact on the person's health and require periodic medical checks to be treated. Their long-term treatment involves considerable costs for the health system and numerous difficulties for the patient. Telemedicine can be a good solution to monitor the progress of the disease and prevent complications. In the context of the Internet of Things, intelligent systems directly connected to the network can be built to allow the continuous exchange of information between patient and doctor and to report any anomalies that may occur in real time. This work shows the development of SISTINE, a telemedicine system based on a sensorized sock that, by monitoring physical quantities such as plantar pressure, acceleration of body segments or limb volume, allows a continuous assessment of patients suffering from phlebopathy. The entire acquisition, transmission and processing system is also described. This wearable device was used in a feasibility study involving 13 patients with vascular disease recruited at the “Casa di Cura Pierangeli” in Pescara. The data collected from an orthostatic posture and a dynamic timed-up-and-go test were processed to provide the doctor with an indication of the patient's health status. The results obtained, with reference to spatio-temporal parameters, plantar pressures and the trend of center of pressure, were in line with those obtained in scientific research.

Objective The goal of this study was to evaluate and compare lower-leg muscle fatigue, edema, and discomfort induced by the prolonged standing of security guards wearing regular socks and those wearing 15–20 or 20–30 mmHg compression stockings as intervention. Background Compression stockings are sometimes used by individuals standing all day at work. However, quantitative evidence showing their potential benefits for lower-leg health issues in healthy individuals during real working conditions is lacking. Method Forty male security employees participated in the study. All were randomly assigned to the control or one of the two intervention groups (I15–20 or I20–30). Lower-leg muscle twitch force, volume, and discomfort ratings were measured before and after their regular 12-hr standing work shift. Results Significant evidence of lower-leg long-lasting muscle fatigue, edema, and discomfort was observed after standing work for guards wearing regular socks. However, no significant changes were found for guards wearing either compression stockings. Conclusion In healthy individuals, compression stockings seem to attenuate efficiently the tested outcomes in the lower leg resulting from prolonged standing. Application Occupational activities requiring prolonged standing may benefit from 15–20 or 20–30 mmHg compression stockings. As similar benefits were observed for both levels of compression, the lower level may be sufficient.

U-shaped plantar cushions could help reduce stress affecting the central forefoot without the need for an orthosis, but they are yet to be integrated as an element in socks. The objective of this study was to verify the effectiveness of a sock with a central discharge element in terms of plantar temperature and comfort. The sample comprised 38 subjects (13 men and 25 women). Their plantar temperatures were measured with a thermographic camera in a basal situation and after each of two 10-minute walks around an indoor circuit during which they wore either control or experimental socks at random (the same design, weight, and fiber, but with the plantar cushioning element added). After the walks, each subject responded to a comfort questionnaire (five-point Likert scale), blindly scoring the two socks. The highest temperatures (28.3 ± 2.7 °C) were recorded in the zone of the second and third metatarsal heads. With the experimental socks, the observed temperature increase in the central forefoot zone was significantly less than with the control socks (31.6 vs 30.6 °C, p = 0.001). The subjects found the experimental socks to be more comfortable than the controls (4.63 ± 0.5 vs 4.03 ± 0.5, p &lt, 0.001). The discharge element included in the experimental socks was effective since it reduced the contact zones and excess friction with the ground, thereby lessening overheating by more than 1°C. Furthermore, the experimental socks were perceived as being more comfortable by the subjects who had mild and occasional foot discomfort.

This article notes that most of the soil-cutting working bodies wear out their socks a lot, as a result of which their limiting state is reached. Despite the fact that other parts of the working body are still workable and the stock of metal for wear is still sufficient, the working body is completely rejected. In this regard, it is emphasized that increasing the durability of the nose parts leads to an increase in the durability of the entire working body. To determine its parameters, the condition for leveling the resources of socks and other parts of the soil-cutting working bodies is considered. When determining the length of the nose of the bits, an analytical dependence is recommended, taking into account the geometric parameters of the bit and the plowshares welded to it. To obtain self-sharpening in the process of bit nose wear, it is recommended to use a new two-faceted profile. The rational values of the length, the angle of the wedge and the sharpening of the nose are determined, equal to 90 mm, 100 and 350-400, respectively. Based on the condition of rational combinations of strength and self-sharpening characteristics of the toes of bits, the thickness and width of the latter were determined, equal to 22.3 mm and 30 mm, respectively.

Background The risk of tick-borne diseases is decreased by increasing awareness and knowledge through prevention education. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of long-lasting permethrin impregnated (LLPI) socks for tick bites. Methods A randomized open label study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of LLPI socks for prevention of tick bites among 367 adults living in a rural area. Participants completed questionnaires at the start of follow-up (July 2014) and at the end of follow-up (December 2014), and tick bites were reported. Results A total of 332 subjects completed the follow-up survey. The tick bite rate of the two groups was not significantly different (3.6% vs. 3.1%). But the tick bite rate of lower extremities of subjects wearing LLPI socks was significantly lower compared to that of subjects wearing general socks. Conclusion The tick bite rate was not different between the two groups, but the tick bite rate of lower extremities of LLPI was significantly lower than general groups. Further study is needed to investigate the effect of LLPI clothes with larger populations., Graphical Abstract

Surface electromyography increasingly plays an important role for prevention, diagnosis and rehabilitation in healthcare field. In this context, the continuous monitoring of the electrical potentials produced by muscles appears to be effective to detect abnormal events. The recent progresses in surface electromyography technologies have allowed for the development of low invasive and reliable wearable devices. These devices promote long-term monitoring; however, they are often very expensive and not easy to be positioned appropriately. Moreover, they use disposable pre-gelled electrodes that can cause skin redness. In this work, to overcome these issues, a prototype of new smart socks has been realized, implementing reusable and high biocompatible hybrid polymer electrolytes. These electrodes provide a comfortable lower limb long-term monitoring avoiding a difficult daily repositioning by users. The realized socks are lightweight and integrates all electronic components for the pre-elaboration and the wireless data sending. The Gastrocnemius-Tibialis muscles were selected and analyzed due to their relevance for assessment of age-related changes in gait, sarcopenia pathology, postural anomalies, fall risk, etc. In particular, in this paper an evaluation on the risk of falling detection by the system was considered as a case of study.

Footwear is intended to provide comfort to wearers and protect human feet against harsh conditions. However, appropriate footwear for military uses has been one of the most important concerns for quite a long time period. Unlike civilian footwear, military footwear is required to be used for a wide range of activities. In order to meet a number of key requirements in one type of military footwear, not one but many compromises have to be made because these requirements usually conflict with one another. This chapter summarizes the key requirements for military footwear used in various environments such as cold-wet and hot scenarios. In addition, the role of textiles in a footwear system comprising socks, insoles, and liners are described. Finally, future trends of military footwear are discussed.

Allergic and irritant contact dermatitis in a country is related to its occupational and cultural practices. People in Sri Lanka, both men and women wear open shoes commonly. Barefoot walking is a routine in our life irrespective of financial status. Professional men and children wear closed shoes with socks to work or schools, respectively, but at home open slippers or barefoot are the custom.

The use of compression stockings is increasingly widespread in sports as a post-exercise recovery system or to increase performance...

Background Non-slip socks are sometimes used in an attempt to prevent falls in hospitals despite limited evidence of benefit. We critique the current literature on their risks, benefits and effects. Methods A rapid review was conducted following the Cochrane Rapid Review Methods Group Guidelines. To be included, studies needed to have data on single or multifactorial interventions that used non-slip socks in hospitals or their safety, risks or effects in a laboratory setting. Six electronic databases were searched: Medline, Embase, Cinahl, Cochrane, Allied and Medical Health Database (AMED) and Proquest Central. Results Fourteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Nine used non-slip socks as an intervention in hospitals. Three assessed their effects in laboratory settings. Two reported risks in relation to bacterial transfer. Most studies that used non-slip socks to prevent hospital falls had negative or equivocal results and were of comparatively low method quality, with a high risk of bias. Two of the laboratory tests reported traction socks to be no safer than walking barefoot and to have similar slip resistance. The laboratory studies had a low risk of bias and showed that bacteria can sometimes be acquired from socks. Conclusion Non-slip socks have the potential to carry an infection control risk that requires careful management. There was no strong or conclusive evidence that they prevent hospital falls.

BACKGROUND Pitted keratolysis (PK) and bromodosis have negative impacts on the quality of life especially for military personnel. The antibacterial efficacy and safety of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) make them a suitable additive for textiles. We aim to establish the ability of ZnO-NP-coated socks to prevent PK and bromodosis in a real-life setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS A double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial was conducted in January 2019. Naval cadets assigned to a 14-day field training course were randomly allocated to either a ZnO-NP-coated or an uncoated-sock group. They completed questionnaires evaluating behavioral risk factors and self-assessed foot odor levels using a visual analogue scale (VAS); intervention-blinded dermatologists also performed foot examinations. They reassessed their odor levels and had their feet re-examined upon completion of the training course. RESULTS The 148 cadets enrolled for the study were allocated to two groups of 74 each. The ZnO-NP-coated sock participants demonstrated significantly less PK development than uncoated socks (P = 0.05). There was a reduction of the foot odor levels in both groups, as measured by the VAS, without statistical difference. However, the uncoated sock group experienced more foot odor with a significantly greater negative effect on their daily lives (P = 0.04) than the ZnO-NP-coated sock group. CONCLUSIONS ZnO-NP-coated socks proved their efficacy in inhibiting the development of PK for military personnel.

A rearfoot strike (RFS) pattern with increased average vertical loading rates (AVLR) while running has been associated with injury. This study evaluated the ability of an instrumented sock, which provides real-time foot strike and cadence audio biofeedback, to transition previously injured military service members from a RFS to a non-rearfoot strike (NRFS) running pattern. Nineteen RFS runners (10 males, 9 females) were instructed to wear the instrumented socks to facilitate a change in foot strike while completing an independent walk-to-run progression and lower extremity exercise program. Kinetic data were collected during treadmill running while foot strike was determined using video analysis at initial (T1), post-intervention (T2), and follow-up (T3) data collections. Nearly all runners (18/19) transitioned to a NRFS pattern following intervention (8 ± 2.4 weeks after the initial visit). Most participants (16/18) maintained the transition at follow-up (5 ± 0.8 weeks after the post-intervention visit). AVLR of the involved and uninvolved limb decreased 29% from initial [54.7 ± 13.2 bodyweights per sec (BW/s) and 55.1 ± 12.7 BW/s] to post-intervention (38.7 ± 10.1 BW/s and 38.9 ± 10.0 BW/s), respectively. This effect persisted 5-weeks later at follow-up, representing an overall 30% reduction on the involved limb and 24% reduction on the uninvolved limb. Cadence increased from the initial to the post-intervention time-point (p = 0.045); however, this effect did not persist at follow-up (p = 0.08). With technology provided feedback from instrumented socks, approximately 90% of participants transitioned to a NRFS pattern, decreased AVLR, reduced stance time and maintained these running adaptations 5-weeks later.

The era of artificial intelligence and internet of things is rapidly developed by recent advances in wearable electronics. Gait reveals sensory information in daily life containing personal information, regarding identification and healthcare. Current wearable electronics of gait analysis are mainly limited by high fabrication cost, operation energy consumption, or inferior analysis methods, which barely involve machine learning or implement nonoptimal models that require massive datasets for training. Herein, we developed low-cost triboelectric intelligent socks for harvesting waste energy from low-frequency body motions to transmit wireless sensory data. The sock equipped with self-powered functionality also can be used as wearable sensors to deliver information, regarding the identity, health status, and activity of the users. To further address the issue of ineffective analysis methods, an optimized deep learning model with an end-to-end structure on the socks signals for the gait analysis is proposed, which produces a 93.54% identification accuracy of 13 participants and detects five different human activities with 96.67% accuracy. Toward practical application, we map the physical signals collected through the socks in the virtual space to establish a digital human system for sports monitoring, healthcare, identification, and future smart home applications.