This PhD project is on the topic of prevention of diabetes-related foot ulcers using beyond state-of-the-art evidence-based design of custom-made therapeutic footwear, based on the latest scientific data, the healthcare professional’s knowledge, and the patient’s needs.
People with diabetes who are at high risk of foot ulceration often rely on custom-made therapeutic footwear to accommodate their foot deformity and reduce plantar and non-plantar peak pressures to help prevent foot complications such as foot ulcers. However, frequently, offloading is not yet optimal, and users experience difficulties with comfort, fit, appearance, or usability, which negatively affect footwear adherence.
This PhD project at Amsterdam UMC is funded by a European MSCA Doctoral Network grant and focuses on improving custom-made footwear through data-driven, evidence-based and patient-centred design. The research investigates how different footwear components, including insoles, rocker outsoles, upper constructions, fastening systems, and materials, impact biomechanical outcomes such as plantar pressure, balance, and stability, as well as user-related outcomes, including walking comfort, fit, usability, quality of life, and adherence.
The project combines a systematic review and experimental studies on objective footwear fit and efficacy of state-of-the-art footwear design, and uses interdisciplinary knowledge from collaborations with shoe technicians, footwear developers, and other industry partners. The overall aim is to support the development and design of more personalised and effective footwear solutions that improve both foot health and daily life for people with diabetes.