Enhanced Wearable Prototype for Continuous Monitoring of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Pilot Study

Smart Wearable for Diabetic Foot Ulcer Monitoring

Abstract

Background: Diabetes, characterized by high blood glucose levels, can lead to complications like diabetic foot ulceration (DFU), primarily caused by Neuropathy, ischemia, and Charcot foot. These conditions damage foot nerves, leading to loss of sensation. DFUs result from abnormal foot pressure and temperature variations. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications, and daily foot examinations can improve efficiency, enabling earlier detection of DFUs.

Methods: This crisscross section focuses on designing and developing an innovative monitoring shoe to detect foot pressure and temperature in real-time and prevent early-stage ulceration. The shoe has an ESP-32 microcontroller, piezoelectric sensors embedded in the insole, DHT11 temperature sensors, and wireless communication capabilities. These components monitor dynamic foot pressure and temperature, transmitting data to a mobile application provides continuous monitoring.

Results: The innovative shoe prototype, tested on 30 participants (diabetic with and without Neuropathy and non-diabetic), revealed significant differences in plantar pressure and foot temperature. Normal foot pressure ranged from 160–470 kPa, while diabetic patients showed 470–550 kPa, neuropathic patients 550–850 kPa, and ulcer patients >850 kPa. Foot temperature ranged from 28–29°C in healthy individuals to 32–33°C in ulcer patients. The prototype effectively detected these variations, highlighting its potential for early detection of diabetic foot ulcers.

Conclusion: The prototype enhances diabetic foot care by enabling real time monitoring of pressure and temperature variations. It promotes early detection and prevention, improving foot health management and timely intervention.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59564/amrj/03.01/021