Article

Orthotic insoles are commonly used in the treatment of the diabetic foot to
prevent ulcerations. Choosing suitable insole material is vital for effective
foot orthotic treatment. We examined seven types of orthotic materials. In
consideration of the key requirements and end uses of orthotic insoles for the
diabetic foot, including accommodation, cushioning, and control, we developed
test methods for examining important physical properties, such as force reduction
and compression properties, insole-skin friction, and shear properties, as well
as thermal comfort properties of fabrication materials. A novel performance index
that combines various material test results together was also proposed to
quantify the overall performance of the insole materials. The investigation
confirms that the insole-sock interface has a lower coefficient of friction and
shearing stress than those of the insole-skin interface. It is also revealed that
material brand and the corresponding density and cell volume, as well as
thickness, are closely associated with the performance of moisture absorption and
thermal comfort. On the basis of the proposed performance index, practitioners
can better understand the properties and performance of various insole materials,
thus prescribing suitable orthotic insoles for patients with diabetic foot.
- Orthèses - Semelles

Langue : ANGLAIS