Evaluation of Pressure Distribution of Kyboot Shoes in Comparison to Other Foot Wear

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2, Foot Ulcer, Diabetic, Sensory Neuropathy

Comparison and evaluation of pressure distribution, gait pattern, changes in the movement of the center of pressure, shock absorbing capabilities and comfort of wear using KyBoot shoes versus normal foot wear in diabetic and healthy subjects.

Every 30 seconds a limb is lost somewhere in the world as a consequence of diabetes. These amputations are preceded by a foot ulcer in 84% of cases. Therefore, prevention of ulceration is of utmost importance. Approximately one-half of all diabetic foot ulcers occur on the plantar foot surface and are mainly caused by elevated levels of mechanical pressure acting on the foot during ambulation in the presence of lost protective foot sensation from peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, to reduce risk of ulceration, relief of mechanical pressure (also called offloading) is indicated. Currently therapeutic footwear is provided by the Health maintenance organizations (HMO's) to diabetic patients that are at risk of developing foot ulcers. Ideal footwear for a diabetic patient decreases weight-bearing pressure and shear forces applied to the skin of the foot by distributing the acting forces more evenly. With the growth in the health and fitness industry, sports footwear has shown technological advances and diversification. The introduction of the KyBoot shoe is an example of this diversification. The Kybun company based their shoe on the experience of walking on soft, muddy rice fields in Korea. The Kyboot construction is based on a soft, supple air cushioned sole. The honeycomb air structure of the kyBoot sole creates an air cushion between your foot and the ground, with one fifth of the volume of air being pumped into the foot area at every step. This design could offer a better distribution of pressure. Therefore, in this study we would like to compare the pressure distribution, changes in the movement of the center of pressure and shock absorbing capabilities of the KyBoot in comparison with normal shoes. Study goals: Comparison and evaluation of pressure distribution, gait pattern, changes in the movement of the center of pressure, shock absorbing capabilities and comfort of wear using KyBoot shoes versus normal foot wear in diabetic and healthy subjects.

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