A new device to help heal diabetic foot ulcers using vibrations
Official title: Development of a novel device for diabetic wound healing using high-frequency, low amplitude vibration
Funded at University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-11029040 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new device that uses gentle vibrations to help heal diabetic foot ulcers faster and improve the quality of life for people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Worth, United States) |
| Project start | February 25, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $268,377 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK141983-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11029040 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with stage 2 diabetic foot ulcers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-diabetic wounds or those who do not have stage 2 diabetic foot ulcers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel device that uses high-frequency, low-amplitude vibrations to improve the healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). The approach aims to enhance blood flow, which is crucial for wound healing, and will evaluate the healing time of stage 2 DFUs compared to standard care. The study also seeks to assess the impact of this device on patients' quality of life. By refining the device and its protocols, the research aims to provide a comprehensive solution for various diabetic wounds.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce healing time for diabetic foot ulcers and improve patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using vibration therapy for wound healing, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
Fort Worth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patterson, Rita Marie — University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Patterson, Rita Marie
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.