Understanding the causes of foot ulcers in diabetes patients

Biomechanical factors for non-plantar ulcers in diabetic foot disease

NIH-funded research VA Puget Sound Healthcare System · NIH-11053200

This study is looking at how the way your foot works can lead to sores in people with diabetes, and it's for anyone who wants to understand more about preventing and treating these common foot problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Puget Sound Healthcare System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11053200 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biomechanical factors that contribute to non-plantar ulcers in individuals with diabetic foot disease. By examining the mechanical properties of foot tissues at common ulceration sites, the study aims to identify how these factors lead to ulcer development. The research utilizes both in vivo and ex vivo methodologies to gather comprehensive data on foot tissue behavior in diabetic patients. Ultimately, the goal is to develop effective strategies for preventing and treating these ulcers, which are often overlooked.

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, particularly those with ulcers occurring on non-plantar areas of the foot.

Not a fit: Patients without diabetes or those who do not have a history of foot ulcers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for foot ulcers in diabetic patients, potentially reducing the risk of amputation and improving quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been extensive research on plantar ulcers, this investigation into non-plantar ulcers is relatively novel and aims to fill a significant gap in current knowledge.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.