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Diabetic Foot and its complications

Diabetic Foot

Our research at the Centre for Biomechanics and Rehabilitation Technologies (CBRT) have been aimed at understanding and addressing the significant issue of diabetic foot ulcers, which are a leading cause of lower-limb amputations worldwide. Annually, these ulcers result in approximately one million amputations globally. Foot ulcers affect between 19% and 34% of individuals with diabetes, leading to a notable increase in the risk of mortality within five years to 70%. This risk is 2.5 times higher compared to non-ulcerous diabetes patients. Our work focuses on developing innovative approaches to tackle these pressing challenges. The factors that contribute to the vulnerability of feet to ulceration in individuals with diabetes, including both tissue and biomechanical characteristics, remain an area of ongoing study.

We have developed new biomechanical assessment protocols to identify patients at risk of diabetic foot ulcers. These evidence-based methods allow clinicians to evaluate foot function and customize early interventions. We have also created novel technologies for designing and fabricating biomechanically informed insoles for diabetes patients. These technologies enable personalised insoles to be prescribed based on a scientific understanding of each patient’s foot biomechanics, plantar pressures, and risk factors.

By advancing assessment techniques and promoting mechanically optimised insoles, the CBRT’s research has produced meaningful outcomes for clinics and patients. Biomechanics-focused preventative strategies and treatments show promise to reduce the incidence of devastating diabetic foot complications. Ongoing research in this application of biomechanics aims to further improve clinical practice and patient health.

Current Projects

Prevention of first ulcers

Funded by NIHR, this project seeks to develop an inclusive ecosystem to advance research and innovation for the prevention of diabetic foot ulcers, with a focus on first ulcers.

UNDERSTOOD

Diabetes is a growing global health problem and diabetic foot disease is one of its most expensive complications. As such we do not have a clear picture

Previous Projects

DiaBSmart

Development of a new generation of DIABetic footwear using an integrated approach and SMART materials (DiaSmart). The DiaBSmart project aimed to generate, transfer, and exchange clinical, academic, and production knowledge between partners to create a

Standup

Smartphone Thermal ANalysis for Diabetic foot Ulcer Prevention and treatment Diabetic foot disease, including neuropathy, arterial disease, and infection, can lead to ulceration and potential amputation. Experts believe diabetic foot ulcers could be further

Customised Insoles

Our program of work has developed a new, unique approach using ultrasound elastography to investigate the mechanical properties of the sole of the foot, including its stiffness and thickness. We established that softer heel pads are associated with foot
CBRT Staffordshire University