Computer designed orthotic device for offloading plantar ulcers—Technical paper

Introduction:
Plantar ulcers occur in patients with peripheral arterial disease or peripheral neuropathy. Plantar ulcers resulting from the peak plantar pressures often lead to disabilities and even amputations. Using an appropriate offloading device would reduce peak plantar pressures and prevent ulcers.

Objectives:
To design and analyze a customized lightweight offloading device that will improve patient compliance and provide good aesthetic value, without compromising on efficacy. Computer Aided Design (CAD) software SOLIDWORKS was used to design two different 3-dimensional models of offloading devices. The light weight, energy efficient and cosmetically appealing offloading devices could be a replacement for the traditional offloading devices made of Plaster of Paris, which are bulky and unappealing, leading to poor compliance.

Results:
The computer simulation studies have established the efficacy of the new designs in offloading the foot.

Conclusion:
The developed designs could be an ideal replacement for traditional offloading devices like the Bohler iron. The designs could improve the user’s compliance and acceptance without compromising on the efficacy. These designs need to be field tested.