The new high-tech electronic socks that could help to stop foot ulcers in ... trends now
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High-tech socks that monitor how people walk could cut the risk of foot and toe amputations due to diabetes.
The electronic sock contains a sensor that detects whether patients are putting too much pressure on parts of the foot that are at risk of ulcers forming, researchers say.
These ulcers — a complication of diabetes — can turn into infected wounds that become gangrenous. Chronic wounds are one reason why around 40 people undergo partial or total foot amputations a week in England.
Patients identified by the socks as being vulnerable to developing an ulcer could then be taught to change their walking style to ease pressure on that part of the foot. Around five million people in the UK have diabetes — 90 per cent of these are type 2, where blood sugar levels are high because the body is either not making enough insulin (which helps 'mop up' sugar from the blood), or the insulin does not work properly.
Type 2 diabetes is associated with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.
A person with diabetes injecting insulin (stock image). High-tech socks that monitor how people walk could cut the risk of foot and toe amputations due to diabetes
Meanwhile, around 10 per cent have type 1 diabetes, which is caused by the immune system attacking the pancreas, which produces insulin.
Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, including those in the feet.
The lack of sensation means patients can have tiny grazes they don't notice,
