A survey of offloading practices for diabetes-related plantar neuropathic foot ulcers.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Offloading is key to preventing or healing plantar neuropathic foot ulcers in diabetes. Total contact casts or walkers rendered irremovable are recommended in guidelines as first-line options for offloading, however the use of such devices has been found to be low. This study aimed to investigate offloading practices for diabetes-related plantar neuropathic ulcers.

Methods

An online survey of closed and open-ended questions was administered via SurveyMonkey®. Forty-one podiatrists experienced in high-risk foot practice, from 21 high-risk foot services around Australia, were approached to participate.

Results

The response rate was 88%. Participants reported using 21 modalities or combinations of modalities, for offloading this ulcer type. The most frequently

SUBMITTER: Raspovic A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4332025 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature