Double-blind, within-patient, randomized, clinical trial comparing fluorine-synthetic fiber socks with standard cotton socks in improving plantar psoriasis

Background: Rubbing the skin and trauma may influence the persistence of psoriasis over time. Objectives: To assess the impact of a new fabric made with a special fluorine-synthetic fiber in improving plantar psoriasis. Methods: A total of 20 patients with symmetrical lesions were randomized to receive on one side a sock made of fluorine-synthetic fiber and on the other side a sock made of cotton fabric for 4 weeks. The main outcome was the percentage reduction of lesional area. Results: In an intention-to-treat analysis, the median lesion reduction was 11.95% in fluorine-synthetic fiber arm and 11.89% in cotton arm (p = 0.776). Among secondary outcomes, patient global satisfaction showed a statistically significant median score of 32 toward fluorine-synthetic fiber arm (p = 0.011). Conclusion: In spite of our main negative results, it is important to continue investigating on the relation between textiles and skin disorders to improve patient well-being.