Creating custom 3D printed insoles to relieve foot pressure for diabetics
Patient Specific 3D Printed Diabetic Insoles to Reduce Plantar Pressure
This study is testing special 3D printed insoles made just for you to help reduce pressure on your feet and lower the risk of foot ulcers if you have diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Puget Sound Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11034086 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing personalized 3D printed insoles designed to reduce plantar pressure in patients with diabetes, particularly those at risk of foot ulcers. By utilizing advanced 3D printing technology, the study aims to create insoles that are tailored to the unique foot characteristics of each patient, potentially improving comfort and reducing the risk of ulceration. The approach involves manufacturing different types of insoles, including standard care and innovative 3D printed options, to compare their effectiveness in offloading pressure from vulnerable areas of the foot. Patients will be monitored to assess the performance of these custom insoles in real-world settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes who are at risk of developing foot ulcers due to high plantar pressures.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetes or those without any foot complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower the incidence of diabetic foot ulcers and related amputations by providing more effective foot support.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using 3D printing for medical applications, indicating potential success for this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muir, Brittney C — VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Muir, Brittney C
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 below.