Search Results
In this study of people with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy, it was found that the feet of patients with a history of hallux ulceration were more pronated and less able to complete a single-leg heel rise compared with the feet of patients with a history of ulceration elsewhere on the foot. The range of active first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion was found to be significantly lower in the affected foot. Ankle dorsiflexion, subtalar joint range of motion, and angle of gait differed from normal values but were similar to those found in other studies involving diabetic subjects and were not important factors in the occurrence of hallux ulceration. These data indicate that a more pronated foot type is associated with hallux ulceration in diabetic feet. Further studies are required to evaluate the efficacy of footwear and orthoses in altering foot posture to manage hallux ulceration. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 96(3): 189–197, 2006)
Background: While numerous studies suggest the benefit of electrical stimulation (E-Stim) therapy to accelerate wound healing, the underlying mechanism of action is still debated. In this pilot study, we examined the potential effectiveness of lower extremity E-Stim therapy to improve tissue perfusion in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Methods: Thirty-eight patients with DFUs were recruited. Participants underwent 60-minutes of active E-Stim therapy provided on acupuncture points above the level of the ankle joint using a bio-electric stimulation technology® (BEST) platform (Tennant Biomodulator® PRO). As primary outcome, changes in perfusion in response to E-Stim were assessed by measuring skin perfusion pressure (SPP) at baseline, 30-, and 60-min during therapy. In addition, retention was assessed 10-min post-therapy. As secondary outcome, tissue oxygen saturation (SatO2) was measured using a non-invasive near-infrared camera (Snapshot NIR, KENT Imaging Inc). Results: SPP increased in response to E-Stim therapy (p = 0.02) with maximum improvement observed at 60-min (11%, p = 0.007) compared to baseline. SPP reduced at 10-min post therapy, but remained higher than baseline (9%, p = 0.1). Magnitude of improvement at 60-min was negatively correlated with baseline SPP values (r = -0.45, p = 0.01) suggesting those with lower perfusion could benefit more from E-Stim therapy. Similar trends were observed for SatO2 with statistically significant improvement for a sub-sample (n=16) with moderate-severe peripheral arterial disease (Ankle brachial index < 0.8 or > 1.4). Conclusions: This study provides early results on the feasibility and effectiveness of E-Stim therapy to improve skin perfusion and SatO2. The magnitude of benefit is higher among those with poorer skin perfusion. Results also suggest the effects of E-Stim could be washed out after stopping therapy and thus regular daily application may be required for the effective benefit for wound healing.
Cellular Senescence and Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in Chronic Wounds
Relevance to Debridement and New Technologies
A prolonged inflammatory response may adversely affect wound closure. Delayed wound closure and extended exposure to chronic wound fluid may also affect cellular activity in a wound bed and result in cellular senescence. Prolonged inflammation and cellular senescence may adversely affect the efficacy of topically-applied biological agents, including growth factors. Appropriate wound bed preparation and debridement are necessary to improve clinical outcomes of new technologies.(J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 92(1): 34-37, 2002)
The Diabetic Foot 2001
A Summary of the Proceedings of the American Diabetes Association’s 61st Scientific Symposium
This review discusses some of the significant studies and events from the 61st American Diabetes Association’s Scientific Symposium. Many of the issues raised at the meeting will form building blocks for future research into offloading, footwear, wound classification, wound healing, tissue engineering, and psychological aspects of therapy and prevention. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 92(1): 2-6, 2002)
Wound-Care Resources on the Internet
An Update
Toward a Change in Syntax in Diabetic Foot Care
Prevention Equals Remission
Because neuroischemic complications are associated with a high rate of recurrence, we propose a slight shift in the mechanism by which we counsel and communicate risk daily with our patients. If the epidemiology of this problem is comparable with that of cancer, and recurrences are common, then perhaps language commensurate with such risks should follow. After initial healing of an index wound, our unit now refers to patients not as being cured but rather as being “in remission.” This concept is easy for the patient and the rest of the team to understand. We believe that it powerfully connotes the necessity for frequent follow-up and rapid intervention for inevitable minor and sometimes major complications. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 103(2): 161–162, 2013)
Malignant melanoma is responsible for more than three-fourths of skin cancer deaths in the United States. Melanomas presenting on acral surfaces are frequently misdiagnosed initially, leading to progression of disease and worse prognosis. This case is presented to reinforce the significance of careful physical examination and early biopsy of atypical ulcerations of the foot.
