Evaluating the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Lifestyle Intervention to Prevent Recurrence of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Pilot Study
University of Southern California
Summary
People with diabetes often experience foot ulcers, which can harm their ability to move, lower their quality of life, and increase the chances of losing a limb. These diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) commonly come back (recur) even after they've healed, so it's crucial to stop them from returning to avoid toe, foot , or leg amputation. While wearing special shoes to reduce pressure on the feet is essential for healing and preventing DFUs, many people struggle to follow this treatment plan once their ulcers have healed. This study aims to see if a lifestyle-focused program can help participants create daily routines and habits that make it easier to consistently use special shoes and take care of their diabetes and feet to prevent ulcers from recurring.
Description
Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a significant complication of diabetes, responsible for 80% of lower extremity amputations in the United States and posing a substantial burden on patients and society. Despite treatment, up to 23% of DFUs remain unhealed at 12 months, with recurrence rates of 40% within a year and 65% within three years. Proper offloading of foot pressure and glucose control is crucial for preventing recurrent DFUs, especially in cases of neuropathy. While standard clinical practice includes patient education and therapeutic footwear prescription, adherence to offloading treatm…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 21+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Age \>= 21 years * Healed diabetic foot ulcer within the past twelve months * Able to walk independently (use of a cane is acceptable) Exclusion Criteria: * Current active diabetic foot ulcer * History of amputation beside toe or part of the foot * Non-ambulatory at baseline * Self-reported deafness/blindness.
Interventions
- BehavioralLifestyle-focused Occupational Therapy Intervention
The proposed intervention, led by trained occupational therapists, will focus on establishing sustainable self-care routines. It will consist of approximately 12 biweekly sessions, each lasting about an hour on average. Therapists will customize session timing and duration based on participant needs.
- OtherEducation
Participants in the education group will receive standardized education materials on diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), foot care, and offloading treatment to prevent foot ulcer recurrence.
Locations (3)
- Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation CenterDowney, California
- Keck Hospital of USCLos Angeles, California
- Los Angeles General Medical CenterLos Angeles, California