Preventing secondary diabetic foot ulceration

In the UK 3.7m people have diabetes and over 60,000 people have an ulcer at any time, costing the NHS circa £ 1 billion annually. Prof Naemi is the lead inventor of the ViscoTurf concept, which is a new 3D-printed orthotic device that emulates the function of natural turf. It consists of dense, flexible fibres that deform under load to provide cushioning, optimised offloading and better microcirculation on the plantar surface of the foot.

When placed within an orthotic indent this reduces the pressure in vulnerable areas while increasing stimulation to the skin. This improves perfusion (the delivery of blood to the capillary bed) in previously ulcerated regions where tissue damage has occurred, and the risk of re-ulceration is very high.

Also providing appropriate cushioning to offload the critical areas of the foot decreases the risk of tissue trauma and ulceration. While the efficacy of Viscoturf concept in improving perfusion has been previously established, the clinical efficacy of the device need to be studied in a clinical setting.

Hence the purpose of this project is to assess the efficacy of Viscotruf insole in improving perfusion and reducing pressure at the sole of the foot in patients with diabetic foot ulcer history.

Associated researchers

Professor Nachiappan Chockalingam

Professor Of Clinical Biomechanics

As Professor of Clinical Biomechanics, I direct the Movement Analysis Laboratory and lead the biomechanics team and research at Staffordshire University. I am also an Affiliate Professor at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta

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Dr Panagiotis Chatzistergos

Associate Professor

My current role is focused on applied research in the fields of musculoskeletal biomechanics and medical devices and among others involves identifying funding opportunities, preparing grant applications and participating in industry-led research…

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Collaborators and funding

In collaboration with Cadscan Ltd and King’s College Hospital Foundation Trust.

Funding support from the National Institute for Health Research (i4i Invention for Innovation Connect)

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