Diabetic Foot Considerations Related to Plantar Pressures and Shear

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Diabetology

Background:

• Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a severe complication of diabetes mellitus.
• DFUs result from multiple risk factors, including biomechanical stresses.
• Charcot neuroarthropathy is another diabetes complication linked to DFU development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review emerging monitoring techniques for diabetic foot ulcer and Charcot arthropathy development.
• To highlight the importance of biomechanical metrics in preventing skin breakdown.
• To emphasize the role of technology, including AI, in managing diabetes complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current research on DFU and Charcot arthropathy risk factors.
• Focus on biomechanical monitoring (pressure, shear stress).
• Inclusion of emerging technologies like temperature sensing and machine learning/AI algorithms.

Main Results:

• Pressure and shear stress are key biomechanical metrics for DFU risk assessment.
• Plantar temperature monitoring and wear-time compliance are also under investigation.
• Machine learning and AI show promise for predicting and preventing DFUs.

Conclusions:

• Integrated monitoring of biomechanical factors, temperature, and AI can aid in DFU prevention.
• Early detection and management of Charcot arthropathy alongside DFUs are crucial.
• Improved monitoring strategies will enhance patient outcomes and quality of life for individuals with diabetes.