The 33 Chilean copper miners who were trapped 2,300 feet underground when their mine collapsed in August 2010 spurred an impromptu experiment in the treatment of fungal foot infections.

Within two weeks of living in the hot and humid conditions, many of the miners began to experience skin problems on their feet.  Socks, made with copper particles, were donated to the miners after anti-fungal cream failed to relieve their skin problems. According to the journal Archives of Dermatology, many of the miners reported their skin problems completely resolved within a week of trying on the socks.

The sock fibers were "impregnated" with copper oxide, a known anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent.

Granted, foot fungus was probably the least of their concerns, but it is a problem that affects many of us surface dwellers everyday.  Socks with copper are now commonly used in treating fungal conditions from athlete's foot to unwelcome odors.

BrightLife Direct is now offering Aetrex non-binding copper sole socks for men and women ranging from no compression to 20-25mmHg, and mini-crew to knee length.

Pete@BrightLife Direct
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