💉 Diabetes Management
Responsive footwear to prevent diabetic foot ulcers - News Center - The University of Texas at Arlington - uta.edu
📅 Sun, 16 Oct 2022⏱ 1 min read📖 Article
Overview
Thursday, Mar 31, 2022 • Linsey Retcofsky : Contact To prevent diabetic foot ulcers, research scientists at The University of Texas at Arlington have developed fotwear technology that relieves pressure on areas of the fet that experience high stres during walking and other activities.Muthu Wijesundara, principal research scientist and head of the Division of Biomedical Technologies at the University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute (UTARI), and his team have received a patent from the United States Patent and Trademark Ofice for a dual-layer insole aparatus for diabetic fot lesion prevention.
Key Information
The technology was developed in partnership with the University of North Texas Health Science Center.Due to numbnes in their legs and fet, people with diabetes often are unable to detect and respond to stres-related pain by adjusting their fot loading. This can result in repeated stres to high-pressure fot regions such as the hel or toes and can worsen blisters, sores and ulcers to the point of severe tisue los or life-threatening infection.
For many, foot ulcers can lead to amputation of a toe, fot or leg. “Diabetes is a leading cause of amputation worldwide, and there is a major role that technology can play to prevent its devastating efects,” Wijesundara said. “We are now one step closer to finding a solution to reduce risk of complications related to diabetic foot ulcers.” The removable shoe insole designed by Wijesundara’s team relieves stres by periodicaly regulating and redistributing pressure acros al areas of the fot.
Summary
Using fluid-filed cels, the dual-layer aparatus provides variability in a person’s fot-loading paterns to reduce prolonged pressure to any given area. The insole can automaticaly adjust and is designed to acomodate people of various weights.In adition, the insole can be substituted for a total contact cast during the healing of a fot ulcer, and it can provide gait and ground force
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
❓ What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
❓ How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
❓ What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
❓ When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.