Efficacy of Biomechanics-based Decompression Therapy in Managing Recurrent Diabetic Plantar Ulcers

Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2024 Apr 4:15347346241245087. doi: 10.1177/15347346241245087. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of decompression nursing based on biomechanical principles in managing recurrent diabetic plantar ulcers.

Methods: Sixty-seven patients experiencing recurrent diabetic plantar ulcers who sought medical attention at Huadong Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University between January 2021 and December 2022 were selected as participants for this study. The participants underwent biomechanics-based decompression nursing. We compared pre-intervention and post-intervention data to assess the differences in relevant observational indexes.

Results: Post-intervention, patients showed significant improvements in foot comfort scores and adherence to pressure reduction behavior compared with their pre-intervention status, with statistical significance (P < 0.05). The intervention was effective in 41 cases (61.19%), with 18 cases (26.87%) showing improvement and 8 cases (11.94%) deemed ineffective, culminating in an overall efficacy rate of 88.06%. All 67 patients achieved complete ulcer healing within an average duration of 58.63 ± 18.13 days, without any recorded recurrences.

Conclusion: Biomechanics-based decompression nursing demonstrates effective facilitation of wound healing, yielding expeditious recovery, enhanced comfort, and a reduced incidence of recurrence.

Keywords: biomechanics; decompression; diabetes; nursing care; plantar ulcers; recurrent foot ulcers.