Reduction of abnormal foot pressures in diabetic neuropathy using a new polymer insole material.
The precise pressures and loads under 69 neuropathic feet have been measured during walking using a modified microprocessor-controlled optical system. Abnormally high pressures were demonstrated in 94% of feet with a history of foot ulceration, with pressures as high as 20-30 kg X cm-2 under the forefoot. All subjects were also studied using a new visco-elastic polymer material recently used for insole manufacture. A reduction in pressure was demonstrated that was proportional to peak pressure (linear regression line correlation coefficient of 0.91; P less than 0.001). We conclude that this material causes a significant reduction in the abnormally high pressures recorded under neuropathic feet, and should provide a useful insole for the management of patients at risk of neuropathic foot ulceration.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003020:Clothing; D003929:Diabetic Neuropathies / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005260:Female; D005528:Foot / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011108:Polymers / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011140:Polyurethanes; D012775:Shoes; D012883:Skin Ulcer / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy
D011108:Polymers; D011140:Polyurethanes; C040864:sorbothane