Off-loading techniques in the treatment of diabetic plantar neuropathic foot ulceration.
In the individual with diabetes mellitus, foot ulceration represents the single most important risk factor in lower-extremity amputation. The goal of treatment is to obtain a healed and closed wound that (1) eliminates a portal of entry for bacterial invasion and development of limb-threatening infection, and (2) allows for tissue loading. This manuscript reviews current off-loading approaches to the treatment of plantar neuropathic foot ulcers, along with advantages and disadvantages of those techniques.
Catanzariti
A R
AR
Division of Podiatric Medical/Surgical Services at Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Pittsburgh, USA.
Haverstock
B D
BD
Grossman
J P
JP
Mendicino
R W
RW
D000671:Amputation, Surgical; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D017719:Diabetic Foot / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D011312:Pressure; D012307:Risk Factors; D012775:Shoes; D016474:Weight-Bearing; D014945:Wound Healing