Patients' Experience of therapeutic footwear whilst living at risk of neuropathic diabetic foot ulceration: an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Background: Previous work has found that people with diabetes do not wear their therapeutic footwear as directed, but the thinking behind this behaviour is unclear. Adherence to therapeutic footwear advice must improve in order to reduce foot ulceration and amputation risk in people with diabetes and neuropathy. Therefore this study aimed to explore the psychological influences and personal experiences behind the daily footwear selection of individuals with diabetes and neuropathy.

The physical characteristics of materials used in the manufacture of orthoses for patients with diabetes.

Background: Neuropathic diabetic foot ulceration may be prevented if the mechanical stress transmitted to the plantar tissues can be modified. Orthotic therapy is one practical method commonly used to maintain tissue integrity. Orthotic design must consider the materials chosen for use in fabrication and profile of the device because both aspects influence the performance and durability of the device.