Newly-Patented Responsive Footwear For Diabetics Self-Adapts To Stave Off Ulcers

Image via University of Texas at Arlington

It’s common for diabetes patients to experience numbness in their legs and feet due to high blood glucose levels, which can affect their nerves and make it difficult to sense if too much pressure is being applied from one part of the foot. Over-exertion and poor circulation give rise to foot ulcers that, when aggravated, could even make it necessary for an amputation.

“Diabetes is a leading cause of amputation worldwide, and there is a major role that technology can play to prevent its devastating effects,” details Muthu Wijesundara, principal research scientist and head of the Division of Biomedical Technologies at the University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute (UTARI).

He and his team, who include researchers at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, are designing footwear that self-regulates and disperses pressure across the sole, adjusting itself when the wearer cannot feel if too much stress has been applied.

The technology for an ulcer-preventing, dual-layer insole has been patented with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The removable insole is constructed with fluid-filled cells that automatically morph to give variability to a diabetic patient’s foot-loading patterns. It can also support people of various weights.

For those recovering from an existing foot ulcer, the insole can even be swapped for a total-contact cast for gait and ground force analysis.

A pilot study funded by the National Institutes of Health is being planned to test early designs outside of a lab.

“We are now one step closer to finding a solution to reduce risk of complications related to diabetic foot ulcers,” proclaims Wijesundara.

[via Technology.org and Innovation News Network, cover image via University of Texas at Arlington]