We established that softer heel pads are associated with foot ulceration in diabetic patients. Further research at CBRT demonstrated that assessing the mechanical properties of an individual’s sole of the foot can improve accuracy in predicting diabetic foot ulceration. In places where healthcare resources are limited, such as many countries in Africa, where the prevalence of diabetic foot ulcers is high, assessing soft tissue mechanical properties is challenging due to difficulties in getting access to ultrasound elastography machines. To address this challenge, we conducted novel research and established a set of easily measurable parameters, which combine neurological and foot-specific biomechanical characteristics, to assess the risk of foot ulcers in diabetic patients. We found that clinically viable measurements related to the foot’s neuromechanical aspects, including excessive forefoot load and impaired sensation to touch, can be used to assess the risk of foot ulceration in patients with diabetes.  

Currently, the conventional insoles designed to protect diabetic feet from mechanical trauma and ulcers are often prescribed without considering the unique variations in how weight is distributed across the sole of the foot for each patient. Our research into Diabetic Foot Insole Prescription has led to the development of a systematic approach using a computational method. We have validated this method using experimental analyses. The approach uses the patient’s weight to identify the insole stiffness that can best redistribute pressure underneath the foot.