Methodology for use of a neuroprosthetic to reduce plantar pressure: applications in patients with diabetic foot disease.

Corresponding Author: Manish Bharara, Ph.D., Southern Arizona Limb Salvage Alliance (SALSA), University of Arizona, College of Medicine, 1501 N Campbell Ave, Room 4318, Tucson, AZ 85724; email address [email protected] Foot-related complications remain among the most common causes of hospitalization, ulceration, amputation, and reduced productivity in people with diabetes.1–3 The consistent entry point in this process involves neuropathy, which, with repetitive normal and shear stress over a prominent area, may lead to inflammation, ulceration, infection, and ultimately, amputation. Due to glycosylation of soft tissues and reduced activity, people with diabetes are at higher risk for developing foot-related deformities, which amplify this cycle.4–6 This is particularly true in the Achilles tendon,4–8 which leads to equinus deformity, increasing forefoot pressure.