According to the World Health Organization (WHO), diabetes is a major cause of lower limb amputations, among other serious health complications. Poor foot care, along with other reasons, are some of the reasons that contribute to diabetic foot ulcers. Proper foot care is essential for people with diabetes, as they have a higher risk of minor injuries on their feet escalating into more serious complications, such as foot ulcers that require leg amputation.

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Therapeutic shoes for persons with diabetes

Diabetic shoes decrease the risk of diabetic foot ulcers and thereby reduce amputations. In the US, there are various options for patients to claim medical insurance for purchases of therapeutic shoes for persons with diabetes, which help to lessen the financial burden of managing their diabetic condition. These specially designed shoes for diabetic patients are designed to protect the foot from impact and slippage with their advanced features designed to support the feet, especially for people with diabetic conditions or other chronic medical conditions that involve the lower limbs. Furthermore, a research team from the University of Texas (UTA) has developed a self-adjusting shoe insole to relieve pressure from diabetic foot ulcers.

Special insoles to reduce diabetic-related problems

Alternatively, if purchasing a pair of therapeutic shoes is out of reach at the moment, do consider settling for special insoles built to reduce diabetic-related problems. Though not as robust in its features when compared to special therapeutic shoes, diabetic insoles are an excellent way to get started on the journey of reaping the benefits of specialised foot care to better manage a diabetic patient’s lifestyle.

Smart insoles to detect signs of foot ulcers for diabetics

In a prospective, randomised, proof-of-concept study involving diabetic patients, an early warning system powered by a smart shoe insole suggests that it can help to reduce diabetic foot ulcer recurrences, according to the results of the study published in The Lancet Digital Health journal. Another example: The Stevens Institute of Technology has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Bonbouton, giving the company the right to use and further develop a graphene sensing system that detects early signs of foot ulcers before they form, so diabetic patients can access preventative healthcare and manage their health.