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Biofeedback for foot offloading in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy
Z Pataky1, D de León Rodriguez, L Allet
1Service of Therapeutic Education for Chronic Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre, Department of Community Medicine, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. zoltan.pataky@hcuge.ch
Diabetic Medicine : a Journal of the British Diabetic Association
|February 4, 2010
Summary
Biofeedback training significantly reduced plantar pressure in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy, aiding in foot ulcer prevention. This method shows promise for long-term foot offloading and improved motor learning.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Diabetology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- High plantar pressure in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy increases the risk of foot ulcers and amputations.
- Effective strategies are needed to reduce plantar pressure in at-risk individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel biofeedback-based method for reducing plantar pressure in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy.
- To assess the effectiveness of this intervention in achieving foot offloading.
Main Methods:
- Thirteen diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy underwent training using a portable in-shoe foot pressure measurement system (PEDAR).
- The training involved walking sequences with real-time biofeedback, aiming for specific plantar pressure ranges.
- Peak plantar pressure was measured during learning and retention tests.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in peak plantar pressure was observed from the beginning to the end of the learning period (262 +/- 70 vs. 191 +/- 53 kPa; P = 0.002).
- This significant reduction was maintained at retention tests, including a 10-day follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Terminal augmented feedback training can positively influence motor learning and lead to effective foot offloading in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy.
- Further research is required to confirm the long-term efficacy of this offloading technique.
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