How can Pedorthists help people suffering from diabetic foot complications?
By: Deny Dallaire, B.Sc., C.Ped (C)
Certified Pedorthist (Canada) with Thera-Ped Moncton
Traditionally, very soft foot orthotics have been introduced as a technique in treating diabetic foot wounds or ulcers. However, many people suffering from diabetes have foot alignment problems that simply cannot be addressed with soft insoles. Currently, a new type of foot orthotic is being used to keep diabetics comfortably active.
The multi-density custom foot orthotic is made of 3 to 5 different materials of varying densities. The bottom lamination is the hardest. It is semi-rigid and it is the functional part of the insole. Each subsequent superior layer gets softer as you get closer to the foot. The very top layer is the softest and will conform to the foot within an hour of wear. The concept is simple: provide functional support with the bottom layer and accommodate foot deformities (or wounds) using the upper layers.
When treating diabetic foot ulcers, the secret is to maintain a total contact with the foot. With multi-density custom foot orthotics, total contact is maintained and crucial blood circulation is not compromised. Also, if faced with forefoot or rearfoot problems, a Pedorthist can easily incorporate wedges or postings on the harder bottom layer of the orthotics. As long as the original mold for the orthotics was taken in the foot’s natural position, these orthotics can be corrected to address most foot misalignments.
Finally, there is also a benefit in providing multi-density foot orthotics to those diabetic clients that do not present foot ulcers. Provided they practice proper foot care, many diabetics show improvement in skin appearance and a decrease in callusing by their 8-week check-up appointment.
Certified Pedorthist (Canada) with Thera-Ped Moncton
Traditionally, very soft foot orthotics have been introduced as a technique in treating diabetic foot wounds or ulcers. However, many people suffering from diabetes have foot alignment problems that simply cannot be addressed with soft insoles. Currently, a new type of foot orthotic is being used to keep diabetics comfortably active.
The multi-density custom foot orthotic is made of 3 to 5 different materials of varying densities. The bottom lamination is the hardest. It is semi-rigid and it is the functional part of the insole. Each subsequent superior layer gets softer as you get closer to the foot. The very top layer is the softest and will conform to the foot within an hour of wear. The concept is simple: provide functional support with the bottom layer and accommodate foot deformities (or wounds) using the upper layers.
When treating diabetic foot ulcers, the secret is to maintain a total contact with the foot. With multi-density custom foot orthotics, total contact is maintained and crucial blood circulation is not compromised. Also, if faced with forefoot or rearfoot problems, a Pedorthist can easily incorporate wedges or postings on the harder bottom layer of the orthotics. As long as the original mold for the orthotics was taken in the foot’s natural position, these orthotics can be corrected to address most foot misalignments.
Finally, there is also a benefit in providing multi-density foot orthotics to those diabetic clients that do not present foot ulcers. Provided they practice proper foot care, many diabetics show improvement in skin appearance and a decrease in callusing by their 8-week check-up appointment.
