Does Offloading with Felt Foot Plates Heal Diabetic Foot Ulcers?

OBJECTIVETo determine (1) if offloading with a felt foot plate heals a diabetic foot ulcer, (2) the rate of healing with the felt foot plate, and (3) the impact on rate of healing from the confounding factors of patient weight and growth factors on healing times.METHODSThe researchers conducted a retrospective chart cohort review over 3 years.RESULTSUsing a multivariable linear and logistic regression model, the data showed a statistically significant reduction in the diabetic foot ulcer area over time. Confounding factors of patient weight and growth factors did not impact healing times.CONCLUSIONSOffloading a diabetic foot ulcer with a felt foot plate is adequate for healing.

Automated summary

A retrospective chart cohort review over 3 years shows that using a felt foot plate can effectively heal a diabetic foot ulcer, and patient weight and growth factors do not affect healing times.