Off-loading techniques in the treatment of diabetic plantar neuropathic foot ulceration

Abstract

In the individual with diabetes mellitus, foot ulceration represents the single most important risk factor in lower-extremity amputation. The goal of treatment is to obtain a healed and closed wound that (1) eliminates a portal of entry for bacterial invasion and development of limb-threatening infection, and (2) allows for tissue loading. This manuscript reviews current off-loading approaches to the treatment of plantar neuropathic foot ulcers, along with advantages and disadvantages of those techniques.