Early treatment interventions to prevent or heal a diabetic foot ulcer can often prevent amputations. Redistributing pressure on the plantar aspect of the foot is a mainstay of prevention strategies. Two enablers are described that summarize critical findings in the literature and attempt to simplify the evidence for practitioners in their offloading decision-making. The enablers are constructed based on the International Working Group of the Diabetic Foot Guidelines and distill offloading interventions. The enablers include interventions directed toward feet with and without neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, and active foot ulcers. GENERAL PURPOSE: To present current International Working Group of the Diabetic Foot recommendations for preventing and healing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) through offloading and plantar pressure redistribution. TARGET AUDIENCE: This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses with an interest in skin and wound care. LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES: After participating in this educational activity, the participant will: Explain recommendations to prevent DFUs. Evaluate appropriate offloading and pressure redistribution interventions for persons with DFUs. Summarize care and educational considerations for patients with DFUs using offloading devices.
Kotru et al. (Fri,) studied this question.