Using smart devices to improve healing of diabetic foot ulcers

Improving the science of adherence reinforcement and safe mobility in people with diabetic foot ulcers using smart offloading

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11012795

This study is testing a new smart device that helps people with diabetic foot ulcers heal better by reminding them to use it correctly, and it’s comparing how well this device works compared to regular treatment methods.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11012795 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the healing process for patients with diabetic foot ulcers by utilizing a smart offloading device called MOTUS Smart. This device allows for real-time monitoring of patient adherence to prescribed offloading therapy, which is crucial for healing. Patients will receive notifications on their smartwatches if they are not using the device correctly, helping to reinforce adherence. The study aims to compare the effectiveness of this innovative approach against traditional methods to determine its impact on healing and mobility.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers who require offloading therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetic foot ulcers or those who are unable to use smart technology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve healing rates for diabetic foot ulcers, reducing the risk of complications such as amputation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using technology to enhance patient adherence in various medical treatments, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.