Conservative Offloading

Abstract

The etiology of ulcerations in diabetes mellitus is associated with the presence of peripheral sensory neuropathy and repetitive trauma due to normal walking activities to areas on the foot that are subject to moderate or high pressures and shear. The combination of loss of protective sensation, deformity, and repetitive trauma is the perfect storm for ulcer development. Once an ulcer is developed, the most important part of the healing process is offloading the ulcer site. Offloading is the mainstay of healing neuropathic ulcers.

Keywords: Deformity; Diabetes; Offloading; Ulcer.