Simple custom offloading slippers enhance wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers

Abstract Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) occurring at pressure points in patients with diabetes related peripheral neuropathy present a significant challenge for healing. Offloading devices are crucial for relieving pressure and promoting wound healing. However, commercially available offloading shoes can be relatively expensive. This study aimed to design and evaluate the effectiveness of personalized, simple, and homemade offloading slippers (OSs) in treating DFU patients. Twelve DFU patients were retrospectively reviewed. OS was created by individually cutting a hole of appropriate size to relieve pressure on the affected foot, in conjunction with standard wound care practices. Five patients wore the OS (OS group), whereas the remaining seven served as the control group. Within 6 months, all patients in the OS group achieved 50% wound healing, compared to only one patient in the control group. Sixty percent of the OS group achieved complete wound healing with significantly higher wound-healing velocity compared to 14% in the control group. In conclusion, these simple OSs are easy to create, cost-effective, and demonstrate effectiveness in enhancing wound healing in DFU patients.