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Association Between Plantar Pressure Distribution and Postural Stability in Patients with Diabetic Foot: A
Yağmur Uysal1, Yavuz Aslan2, Esra Atılgan1,3
1Department of Orthotics Prosthetics, Institute of Health Sciences, Istanbul Medipol University, 34815 Istanbul, Türkiye.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|July 24, 2026
Summary
In early-stage diabetic foot, rearfoot loading is common, but it doesn't link to balance issues. Plantar load and stability are separate assessment areas for diabetic foot care.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Diabetology
- Neurology
Background:
- Plantar load distribution and postural stability are crucial for diabetic foot assessment.
- Their association in early-stage diabetic foot is not well understood.
- Early detection and management are key to preventing diabetic foot complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between static plantar load distribution and postural stability in patients with early-stage diabetic foot (Meggitt-Wagner grade 0-1).
- To characterize load distribution patterns and postural control in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 31 early-stage diabetic foot patients.
- Plantar load assessed using Tekscan Pressure Measurement System.
- Postural stability evaluated using Nintendo Wii Balance Board under various stance conditions (eyes-open, eyes-closed, single-leg).
- Statistical analysis included Spearman correlation with Benjamini-Hochberg FDR correction.
Main Results:
- A bilateral rearfoot-dominant loading pattern was observed (approx. 61.5-61.8%).
- No statistically significant associations were found between plantar load distribution and center of pressure (CoP) sway velocity after FDR correction.
- Postural stability showed sensory-dependent behavior (eyes-closed condition increased sway).
Conclusions:
- Adults with early-stage diabetic foot display a rearfoot-dominant loading pattern and rely on visual input for postural control.
- Static plantar load distribution and postural stability appear to be independent functional domains in this population.
- Further research with healthy controls is needed to establish clinical significance and explore potential interventions.
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