Technical methods of improving the biomechanics of feet in people with diabetes

¹ Kazan State Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Department of Surgery, 420012, Kazan, Russia
² Clinical Hospital “Russian Railway - Medicine”, Department of Purulent Surgery, Kazan, Russia
³ Kazan National Research Technological University” - Institute of Innovation Management, Kazan, Russia

^* Corresponding author: korejba_k@mail.ru

Abstract

This article discusses the role of orthoses in correcting biomechanics for patients with diabetic foot syndrome. It also analyzes literature on the use of specialized orthopedic shoes to address biomechanical foot issues and complicated forms of diabetes mellitus. Today, the general requirements for designing orthopedic shoes for patients with diabetes are described: a stiff sole with an artificial cushion; a suitable volume, a wide sole, an insole without a memory function; a thermally changeable elastic material; a minimum number of seams in the lining; an elastic upper and lining material in the toe area of the shoe; an increased fullness and additional volume in the toe region of the shoe, an angle of the bevel at the toe end of the sole, and the ability to adjust the interior volume of the shoe by using a hard heel that is stabilized with additional softness from the lining, as well as a smooth, non-traumatic upper. Indications for orthopedic unloading in patients with diabetic foot syndrome are highlighted.There is a negative approach towards conservative methods of treating patients with diabetic feet, but amputation in these cases cannot be considered a positive outcome of treatment. Nearly 70 to 90 percent of ulcers in this patient group heal without amputation. Techniques using specially designed shoes are less expensive and more cost-effective than limb loss. The use of orthotic shoes in diabetic foot patients serves as a method of both correction and rehabilitation.