The Indian Institute of Science (IISC)-led team has developed footwear with ‘snapping’ arches to combat injuries from abnormal gait.
Story so far: Researchers at IISc have developed a 3D-printed ‘snapping’ footwear which has the potential of solving abnormal gait-induced injuries. They are specifically designed for diabetic patients.
- Diabetics who have lost sensation in their feet are at a higher risk of developing ulcers and calluses.
- Complications from abnormal gait and slow healing in diabetics can lead to infections resulting in amputation.
Key Details: Researchers have developed soles with ‘snapping arches’ in them. These will allow for the pressure from the foot to be evenly distributed.
- Compared to therapeutic footwear, these soles also deal with offloading pressure. After the pressure is removed, these soles go back to their original shape.