Off-loading techniques in the treatment of diabetic plantar neuropathic foot ulceration

Adv Wound Care. 1999 Nov-Dec;12(9):452-8.

Abstract

In the individual with diabetes mellitus, foot ulceration represents the single most important risk factor in lower-extremity amputation. The goal of treatment is to obtain a healed and closed wound that (1) eliminates a portal of entry for bacterial invasion and development of limb-threatening infection, and (2) allows for tissue loading. This manuscript reviews current off-loading approaches to the treatment of plantar neuropathic foot ulcers, along with advantages and disadvantages of those techniques.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amputation, Surgical
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Diabetic Foot / physiopathology*
  • Diabetic Foot / therapy*
  • Equipment Design
  • Humans
  • Orthotic Devices*
  • Pressure
  • Risk Factors
  • Shoes*
  • Weight-Bearing
  • Wound Healing*