Effect of Rocker Sole Shoe on Foot Plantar Pressure: Is It Useful in Diabetic Patients?

Diabetes mellitus is an epidemic chronic condition in worldwide [1]. There is considerable growth in the number of who have diabetes [2]. One of the most common complications of diabetes is neuropathy that affecting 50% to 70% of cases [3,4]. The loss of sensation in the foot due to peripheral neuropathy may often lead to muscle imbalance, delays in muscle activation patterns, abnormal gait and alterations of plantar pressure distribution pattern. Limited joint mobility and changes in the structure of the foot can also cause the gait abnormalities and elevated plantar pressure [4]. It is well known that high plantar pressures are a major risk factor in the pathogenesis of plantar ulcers in neuropathic foot [5]. Among persons with diabetes, the lifetime risk of developing an ulcer could be as high as 15–25% [6,7]. Ulcers are most often seen on high-pressure areas of the foot, especially on the metatarsal heads and toes [3].