MILWAUKEE (July 22, 2014)—Dr. Comfort, a leading manufacturer of therapeutic footwear, has released the results of its recent study, which examined the clinical impact of therapeutic footwear on diabetic complications, including foot ulcers and amputations, in patients with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
The results show that the likelihood of foot ulcers and amputation in T2DM patients not wearing therapeutic footwear was higher than in patients who did wear therapeutic footwear. The retrospective claims database study reviewed patients during a three-year period—one year before the index therapeutic shoe claim and up to two years after a patient started wearing therapeutic footwear. The study revealed that foot ulceration decreased by 2 percent and 12 percent in years one and two respectively, while lower limb amputation decreased by 29 percent and 18 percent in years one and two respectively.
“This study is unique in that we had a data set that was an accurate representation of the U.S. population,” said Dr. Roy Lidtke*, co-author of the study. “Other studies often gather data through clinical trials, which typically brings in people who are healthier and more active than the average T2DM patient. With more than 26,000 study participants, all of whom were T2DM patients, our study showcases the effects that not wearing therapeutic shoes can have on the overall T2DM population.”
Foot ulcers in those with T2DM can lead to serious problems, including lower limb amputations. This has led researchers to study factors that lead to and can prevent diabetic foot ulcers. Prevention strategies include wearing therapeutic footwear.
“The study results show the health benefits therapeutic footwear can provide Type 2 diabetes patients,” said Michael Minshall, senior director, health economics and reimbursement at DJO, LLC and co-author of the study. “Once these patients start wearing therapeutic shoes, their chances of foot ulcers and amputations decrease, providing them the opportunity to live a healthier life.”
Dr. Lidtke presented the study results at the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Scientific Session on June 15 and at the Annual Podiatric Medical Association Annual Scientific Meeting July 24-27. Additional study results will also be presented at the Pedorthic Footcare Association (PFA) Annual Symposium & Exhibition Oct. 24-26.
Dr. Comfort shoes are readily available through a large network of health care providers and online. In addition to shoes for people with diabetes, Dr. Comfort offers the patented Flex-OA Mobility Shoes for people wishing to reduce knee stress. The company’s product offering has also expanded to include prescription and non-prescription inserts, diabetic socks, slippers, sandals and compression wear that enable people with a full range of therapeutic needs to be more active. For more information about Dr. Comfort, a DJO Global company, or to find a footwear professional, visit drcomfort.com or call (800) 556-5572.
*Dr. Roy Lidtke is a paid consultant for Dr. Comfort.
