1
|
Hulshof CM, Page M, van Baal SG, Bus SA, Fernando ME, van Gemert-Pijnen L, Kappert KDR, Lucadou-Wells S, Najafi B, van Netten JJ, Lazzarini PA. The Stress of Measuring Plantar Tissue Stress in People with Diabetes-Related Foot Ulcers: Biomechanical and Feasibility Findings from Two Prospective Cohort Studies. Sensors (Basel) 2024; 24:2411. [PMID: 38676030 PMCID: PMC11054765 DOI: 10.3390/s24082411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Reducing high mechanical stress is imperative to heal diabetes-related foot ulcers. We explored the association of cumulative plantar tissue stress (CPTS) and plantar foot ulcer healing, and the feasibility of measuring CPTS, in two prospective cohort studies (Australia (AU) and The Netherlands (NL)). Both studies used multiple sensors to measure factors to determine CPTS: plantar pressures, weight-bearing activities, and adherence to offloading treatments, with thermal stress response also measured to estimate shear stress in the AU-study. The primary outcome was ulcer healing at 12 weeks. Twenty-five participants were recruited: 13 in the AU-study and 12 in the NL-study. CPTS data were complete for five participants (38%) at baseline and one (8%) during follow-up in the AU-study, and one (8%) at baseline and zero (0%) during follow-up in the NL-study. Reasons for low completion at baseline were technical issues (AU-study: 31%, NL-study: 50%), non-adherent participants (15% and 8%) or combinations (15% and 33%); and at follow-up refusal of participants (62% and 25%). These underpowered findings showed that CPTS was non-significantly lower in people who healed compared with non-healed people (457 [117; 727], 679 [312; 1327] MPa·s/day). Current feasibility of CPTS seems low, given technical challenges and non-adherence, which may reflect the burden of treating diabetes-related foot ulcers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chantal M. Hulshof
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Rehabilitation Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Ageing & Vitality and Rehabilitation & Development, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Madelyn Page
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | | | - Sicco A. Bus
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Rehabilitation Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Ageing & Vitality and Rehabilitation & Development, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Malindu E. Fernando
- Southwestern Academic Limb Salvage Alliance (SALSA), Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, Los Angeles, CA 90242, USA
- Ulcer and Wound Healing Consortium (UHEAL), Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Lisette van Gemert-Pijnen
- Department of Psychology, Health & Technology, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
| | | | - Scott Lucadou-Wells
- Allied Health Research Collaborative, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jaap J. van Netten
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Rehabilitation Medicine, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Ageing & Vitality and Rehabilitation & Development, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Peter A. Lazzarini
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Allied Health Research Collaborative, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mishra RK, Bara RO, Zulbaran-Rojas A, Park C, Fernando ME, Ross J, Lepow B, Najafi B. The Application of Digital Frailty Screening to Triage Nonhealing and Complex Wounds. J Diabetes Sci Technol 2024; 18:389-396. [PMID: 35856398 PMCID: PMC10973858 DOI: 10.1177/19322968221111194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated the association between the complexity of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and frailty. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Individuals (n = 38) with Grade 2 Wagner DFU were classified into 3 groups based on the Society for Vascular Surgery risk-stratification for major limb amputation as Stage 1 at very low risk (n = 19), Stage 2 at low risk (n = 9), and Stage 3 to 4 at moderate-to-high risk (n = 10) of major limb amputation. Frailty status was objectively assessed using a validated digital frailty meter (FM). The FM works by quantifying weakness, slowness, rigidity, and exhaustion over a 20-second repetitive elbow flexion-extension exercise using a wrist-worn sensor. FM generates a frailty index (FI) ranging from 0 to 1; higher values indicate progressively greater severity of frailty. Skin perfusion pressure (SPP), albumin, and tissue oxygenation level (SatO2) were also measured. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to identify group effect for wound complexity. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to assess the associations with frailty and clinical endpoints. RESULTS Frailty index was higher in Stage 3 and 4 as compared to Stage 1 (d = 1.4, P < .01) and Stage 2 (d = 1.2, P < .01). Among assessed frailty phenotypes, exhaustion was correlated with SPP (r = -0.63, P < .01) and albumin (r = -0.5, P < .01). CONCLUSION Digital biomarkers of frailty may predict complexity of DFU and thus triage individuals who can be treated more simply in their primary clinic versus higher risk patients who require prompt referral to multidisciplinary, more complex care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ram Kinker Mishra
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rasha O. Bara
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alejandro Zulbaran-Rojas
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Catherine Park
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Big Data Scientist Training Enhancement Program, VA Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Malindu E. Fernando
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Ulcer and Wound Healing Consortium (UHEAL), Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Ross
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Brian Lepow
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- School of Health Professions, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Division of Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pouwer F, Perrin B, Lavender A, Najafi B, Ismail K, Vileikyte L. The quest for wellness: How to optimise self-care strategies for diabetic foot management? Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2024; 40:e3751. [PMID: 38041482 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.3751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) is common and highly recurrent, negatively impacting the individuals' quality of life. The 2023 guidelines of the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot emphasise that adherence to foot self-care recommendations is one of the most important factors in DFU prevention. These guidelines also briefly mention that depression and other psychosocial problems can hamper treatment and ulcer healing. Moreover, a new clinical question was added on psychological interventions for ulcer prevention, although the evidence regarding the role of psychological and social factors is still limited. To help the field progress, this narrative overview discusses how a stronger focus on psychological factors by both researchers and clinicians could improve the care for people at high DFU risk. The review starts with a testimony of a person living with DFU, explaining that for him, the absence of shared decision-making has been a key barrier to successful foot self-care implementation. Intervention studies that address patient-reported barriers are still scarce, and are therefore urgently needed. Furthermore, the key elements of psychological interventions found to be successful in managing diabetes are yet to be implemented in DFU risk management. Importantly, research evidence indicates that commonly advocated foot self-care recommendations may be insufficient in preventing DFU recurrence, whereas digital technology appears to effectively reduce recurrent DFU. More research is therefore needed to identify determinants of patient acceptance of digital technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frans Pouwer
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Odense (SDCO), Odense, Denmark
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Byron Perrin
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Khalida Ismail
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Weston Education Centre, London, UK
| | - Loretta Vileikyte
- Diabetes Centre, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Endocrinology and Dermatology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lazarus J, Cioroianu I, Ehrhardt B, Gurevich D, Kreusser L, Metcalfe B, Nishtala P, Preatoni E, Sharp TH. Data-driven digital health technologies in the remote clinical care of diabetic foot ulcers: a scoping review. Front Clin Diabetes Healthc 2023; 4:1212182. [PMID: 37727285 PMCID: PMC10505804 DOI: 10.3389/fcdhc.2023.1212182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Background The availability and effectiveness of Digital Health Technologies (DHTs) to support clinicians, empower patients, and generate economic savings for national healthcare systems are growing rapidly. Of particular promise is the capacity of DHTs to autonomously facilitate remote monitoring and treatment. Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFUs) are characterised by high rates of infection, amputation, mortality, and healthcare costs. With clinical outcomes contingent on activities that can be readily monitored, DFUs present a promising focus for the application of remote DHTs. Objective This scoping review has been conducted as a first step toward ascertaining fthe data-related challenges and opportunities for the development of more comprehensive, integrated, and individualised sense/act DHTs. We review the latest developments in the application of DHTs to the remote care of DFUs. We cover the types of DHTs in development and their features, technological readiness, and scope of clinical testing. Eligibility criteria Only peer-reviewed original experimental and observational studies, case series and qualitative studies were included in literature searches. All reviews and manuscripts presenting pre-trial prototype technologies were excluded. Methods An initial search of three databases (Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Scopus) generated 1,925 English-language papers for screening. 388 papers were assessed as eligible for full-text screening by the review team. 81 manuscripts were found to meet the eligibility criteria. Results Only 19% of studies incorporated multiple DHTs. We categorised 56% of studies as 'Treatment-Manual', i.e. studies involving technologies aimed at treatment requiring manual data generation, and 26% as 'Prevention-Autonomous', i.e. studies of technologies generating data autonomously through wearable sensors aimed at ulcer prevention through patient behavioural change. Only 10% of studies involved more ambitious 'Treatment-Autonomous' interventions. We found that studies generally reported high levels of patient adherence and satisfaction. Conclusions Our findings point to a major potential role for DHTs in remote personalised medical management of DFUs. However, larger studies are required to assess their impact. Here, we see opportunities for developing much larger, more comprehensive, and integrated monitoring and decision support systems with the potential to address the disease in a more complete context by capturing and integrating data from multiple sources from subjective and objective measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joel Lazarus
- Department of Social and Policy Studies, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Iulia Cioroianu
- Department of Politics, Languages and International Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Beate Ehrhardt
- Institute for Mathematical Innovation, Languages and International Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - David Gurevich
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Kreusser
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Metcalfe
- Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Science, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Prasad Nishtala
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Engineering and Design, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Ezio Preatoni
- Department for Health, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Tamsin H. Sharp
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cortes-Penfield NW, Armstrong DG, Brennan MB, Fayfman M, Ryder JH, Tan TW, Schechter MC. Evaluation and Management of Diabetes-related Foot Infections. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 77:e1-e13. [PMID: 37306693 PMCID: PMC10425200 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - David G Armstrong
- Department of Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Meghan B Brennan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Maya Fayfman
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan H Ryder
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Tze-Woei Tan
- Department of Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marcos C Schechter
- Department of Medicine, Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Srass H, Ead JK, Armstrong DG. Adherence and the Diabetic Foot: High Tech Meets High Touch? Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:6898. [PMID: 37571682 PMCID: PMC10422535 DOI: 10.3390/s23156898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic foot ulcers, which are a common complication of diabetes, can have a negative impact on a person's physical and mental health, including an increased risk of depression. Patients suffering from depression are less likely to keep up with diabetic foot care, thus increasing the risk of developing ulcers. However, with the use of artificial intelligence (AI), at-home patient care has become easier, which increases adherence. To better understand how new technologies, including machine learning algorithms and wearable sensors, might improve patient adherence and outcomes, we conducted a literature review of several sensor technologies, including SmartMat© and Siren Care© socks for temperature, SurroSense Rx/Orpyx© for pressure, and Orthotimer© for adherence. An initial search identified 143 peer-reviewed manuscripts, from which we selected a total of 10 manuscripts for further analysis. We examined the potential benefits of personalized content and clinician support for those receiving mobile health interventions. These findings may help to demonstrate the current and future utility of advanced technologies in improving patient adherence and outcomes, particularly in the context of diabetes management and the link between behavior and complications in diabetes, such as diabetic foot ulcers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hadia Srass
- Southwestern Academic Limb Salvage Alliance, Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, 1450 San Pablo St #6200, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
- College of Engineering, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Ave., Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - J. Karim Ead
- Southwestern Academic Limb Salvage Alliance, Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, 1450 San Pablo St #6200, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - David G. Armstrong
- Southwestern Academic Limb Salvage Alliance, Department of Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, 1450 San Pablo St #6200, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ababneh A, Finlayson K, Edwards H, Armstrong DG, Najafi B, van Netten JJ, Lazzarini PA. The Validity and Reliability of Self-Reported Adherence to Using Offloading Treatment in People with Diabetes-Related Foot Ulcers. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:4423. [PMID: 37177627 PMCID: PMC10181495 DOI: 10.3390/s23094423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Adherence to using offloading treatment is crucial to healing diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFUs). Offloading adherence is recommended to be measured using objective monitors. However, self-reported adherence is commonly used and has unknown validity and reliability. This study aimed to assess the validity and reliability of self-reported adherence to using removable cast walker (RCW) offloading treatment among people with DFUs. Fifty-three participants with DFUs using RCWs were included. Each participant self-reported their percentage adherence to using their RCW of total daily steps. Participants also had adherence objectively measured using dual activity monitors. After one week, a subset of 19 participants again self-reported their percentage adherence to investigate test-retest reliability. Validity was tested using Pearson's r and Bland-Altman tests, and reliability using Cohen's kappa. Median (IQR) self-reported adherence was greater than objectively measured adherence (90% (60-100) vs. 35% (19-47), p < 0.01). There was fair agreement (r = 0.46; p < 0.01) and large 95% limits of agreement with significant proportional bias (β = 0.46, p < 0.01) for validity, and minimal agreement for test-retest reliability (K = 0.36; p < 0.01). The validity and reliability of self-reported offloading adherence in people with DFU are fair at best. People with DFU significantly overestimate their offloading adherence. Clinicians and researchers should instead use objective adherence measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anas Ababneh
- Faculty of Nursing, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Kathleen Finlayson
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Helen Edwards
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - David G. Armstrong
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jaap J. van Netten
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, 1105 AZ Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1012 WX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Ageing & Vitality and Rehabilitation and Development, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Peter A. Lazzarini
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Allied Health Research Collaborative, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4032, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Finco MG, Cay G, Lee M, Garcia J, Salazar E, Tan TW, Armstrong DG, Najafi B. Taking a Load Off: User Perceptions of Smart Offloading Walkers for Diabetic Foot Ulcers Using the Technology Acceptance Model. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:2768. [PMID: 36904971 PMCID: PMC10006940 DOI: 10.3390/s23052768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
People with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are commonly prescribed offloading walkers, but inadequate adherence to prescribed use can be a barrier to ulcer healing. This study examined user perspectives of offloading walkers to provide insight on ways to help promote adherence. Participants were randomized to wear: (1) irremovable, (2) removable, or (3) smart removable walkers (smart boot) that provided feedback on adherence and daily walking. Participants completed a 15-item questionnaire based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Spearman correlations assessed associations between TAM ratings with participant characteristics. Chi-squared tests compared TAM ratings between ethnicities, as well as 12-month retrospective fall status. A total of 21 adults with DFU (age 61.5 ± 11.8 years) participated. Smart boot users reported that learning how to use the boot was easy (ρ =-0.82, p≤ 0.001). Regardless of group, people who identified as Hispanic or Latino, compared to those who did not, reported they liked using the smart boot (p = 0.05) and would use it in the future (p = 0.04). Non-fallers, compared to fallers, reported the design of the smart boot made them want to wear it longer (p = 0.04) and it was easy to take on and off (p = 0.04). Our findings can help inform considerations for patient education and design of offloading walkers for DFUs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. G. Finco
- Interdisciplinary Consortium for Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Gozde Cay
- Interdisciplinary Consortium for Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Myeounggon Lee
- Interdisciplinary Consortium for Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jason Garcia
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Elia Salazar
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Tze-Woei Tan
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - David G. Armstrong
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium for Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-removable knee-high devices are the gold-standard offloading treatments to heal plantar diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). These devices are underused in practice for a variety of reasons. Recommending these devices for all patients, regardless of their circumstances and preferences influencing their ability to tolerate the devices, does not seem a fruitful approach. PURPOSE The aim of this article is to explore the potential implications of a more personalized approach to offloading DFUs and suggest avenues for future research and development. METHODS Non-removable knee-high devices effectively heal plantar DFUs by reducing plantar pressure and shear at the DFU, reducing weight-bearing activity and enforcing high adherence. We propose that future offloading devices should be developed that aim to optimize these mechanisms according to each individual's needs. We suggest three different approaches may be developed to achieve such personalized offloading treatment. First, we suggest modular devices, where different mechanical features (rocker-bottom sole, knee-high cast walls/struts, etc.) can be added or removed from the device to accommodate different patients' needs and the evolving needs of the patient throughout the treatment period. Second, advanced manufacturing techniques and novel materials could be used to personalize the design of their devices, thereby improving common hindrances to their use, such as devices being heavy, bulky, and hot. Third, sensors could be used to provide real-time feedback to patients and clinicians on plantar pressures, shear, weight-bearing activity, and adherence. CONCLUSIONS By the use of these approaches, we could provide patients with personalized devices to optimize plantar tissue stress, thereby improving clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gustav Jarl
- Department of Prosthetics and
Orthotics, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro,
Sweden
- University Health Care Research
Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro,
Sweden
- Gustav Jarl, PhD, University Health
Care Research Center, Örebro University Hospital, S-huset, vån 1,
Örebro, SE-701 85, Sweden.
| | - David F. Rusaw
- School of Health and Welfare,
Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Alexander J. Terrill
- School of Mechanical, Medical and
Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD,
Australia
- Centre for Biomedical
Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD,
Australia
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross
University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Maria A. Woodruff
- School of Mechanical, Medical and
Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD,
Australia
- Centre for Biomedical
Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD,
Australia
| | - Peter A. Lazzarini
- School of Public Health and
Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
- Allied Health Research
Collaborative, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ababneh A, Finlayson K, Edwards H, van Netten JJ, Lazzarini PA. Differences in adherence to using removable cast walker treatment during daytime and nighttime weight-bearing activities in people with diabetes-related foot ulcers. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2023; 14:20420188221142457. [PMID: 36643893 PMCID: PMC9837274 DOI: 10.1177/20420188221142457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Patients' adherence to using knee-high offloading treatment is critical to effective healing of diabetes-related foot ulcers (DFUs). Previous studies have found that patients generally have low adherence to using removable knee-high offloading treatments, yet no study has investigated whether their adherence differs during daytime and nighttime. This study aimed to investigate the levels and factors associated with adherence to using knee-high removable cast walker (RCW) treatment during daytime and nighttime weight-bearing activities in people with DFUs. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of data collected from a multi-centre cross-sectional study investigating adherence to using knee-high RCWs among 57 participants with DFUs. All participants had multiple socio-demographic, physiological and psychosocial factors collected, before having their adherence to using RCWs during weight-bearing activity monitored over a 1-week period using the dual activity monitor method. Adherence data were categorised into daytime (06:00-18:00) and nighttime (18:00-06:00) periods and calculated separately. Multiple linear regression was used to identify factors associated with daytime and nighttime adherence. RESULTS Mean adherence to using RCW during weight-bearing activities in people with DFUs was higher during daytime compared with nighttime [39.9% (SD = 18.9) versus 20.4% (SD = 16.7), p < 0.001]. Factors independently associated with lower adherence during daytime were being male, longer diabetes duration, not having peripheral artery disease (PAD), and higher perceived RCW heaviness. Factors associated with lower adherence during nighttime were higher mean daytime steps, not having retinopathy and having dyslipidaemia. CONCLUSIONS Adherence to using RCWs during weight-bearing activities reduced significantly at nighttime compared with daytime among people with DFUs, and this was associated with different factors. Interventions to improve adherence, in research and clinical practice, should incorporate methods to target daytime or nighttime adherence specifically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathleen Finlayson
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Helen Edwards
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jaap J. van Netten
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Rehabilitation & Development Program, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter A. Lazzarini
- Centre for Healthcare Transformation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Allied Health Research Collaborative, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Freytag J, Mishra RK, Street RL, Catic A, Dindo L, Kiefer L, Najafi B, Naik AD. Using Wearable Sensors to Measure Goal Achievement in Older Veterans with Dementia. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 22:9923. [PMID: 36560290 PMCID: PMC9782012 DOI: 10.3390/s22249923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Aligning treatment with patients' self-determined goals and health priorities is challenging in dementia care. Wearable-based remote health monitoring may facilitate determining the active participation of individuals with dementia towards achieving the determined goals. The present study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of using wearables to assess healthcare goals set by older adults with cognitive impairment. We present four specific cases that assess (1) the feasibility of using wearables to monitor healthcare goals, (2) differences in function after goal-setting visits, and (3) goal achievement. Older veterans (n = 17) with cognitive impairment completed self-report assessments of mobility, then had an audio-recorded encounter with a geriatrician and wore a pendant sensor for 48 h. Follow-up was conducted at 4-6 months. Data obtained by wearables augments self-reported data and assessed function over time. Four patient cases illustrate the utility of combining sensors, self-report, notes from electronic health records, and visit transcripts at baseline and follow-up to assess goal achievement. Using data from multiple sources, we showed that the use of wearable devices could support clinical communication, mainly when patients, clinicians, and caregivers work to align care with the patient's priorities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Freytag
- Houston VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ram Kinker Mishra
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- BioSensics, Boston, MA 02458, USA
| | - Richard L. Street
- Department of Communications, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Angela Catic
- Houston VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lilian Dindo
- Houston VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lea Kiefer
- Houston VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Houston VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Aanand D. Naik
- Houston VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Management, Policy and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- UTHealth Consortium on Aging, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mohammadi-Ghazi R, Nguyen H, Mishra RK, Enriquez A, Najafi B, Stephen CD, Gupta AS, Schmahmann JD, Vaziri A. Objective Assessment of Upper-Extremity Motor Functions in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Using Wearable Sensors. Sensors (Basel) 2022; 22:7993. [PMID: 36298343 PMCID: PMC9609238 DOI: 10.3390/s22207993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The study presents a novel approach to objectively assessing the upper-extremity motor symptoms in spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) using data collected via a wearable sensor worn on the patient's wrist during upper-extremity tasks associated with the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA). First, we developed an algorithm for detecting/extracting the cycles of the finger-to-nose test (FNT). We extracted multiple features from the detected cycles and identified features and parameters correlated with the SARA scores. Additionally, we developed models to predict the severity of symptoms based on the FNT. The proposed technique was validated on a dataset comprising the seventeen (n = 17) participants' assessments. The cycle detection technique showed an accuracy of 97.6% in a Bland-Altman analysis and a 94% accuracy (F1-score of 0.93) in predicting the severity of the FNT. Furthermore, the dependency of the upper-extremity tests was investigated through statistical analysis, and the results confirm dependency and potential redundancies in the upper-extremity SARA assessments. Our findings pave the way to enhance the utility of objective measures of SCA assessments. The proposed wearable-based platform has the potential to eliminate subjectivity and inter-rater variabilities in assessing ataxia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hung Nguyen
- BioSensics LLC, 57 Chapel St, Newton, MA 02458, USA
| | | | - Ana Enriquez
- BioSensics LLC, 57 Chapel St, Newton, MA 02458, USA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Christopher D. Stephen
- Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anoopum S. Gupta
- Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jeremy D. Schmahmann
- Ataxia Center, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Park C, Atique MMU, Mishra R, Najafi B. Association between Fall History and Gait, Balance, Physical Activity, Depression, Fear of Falling, and Motor Capacity: A 6-Month Follow-Up Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:10785. [PMID: 36078500 PMCID: PMC9517805 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Maintaining function in older adults is key to the quality of life and longevity. This study examined the potential impact of falls on accelerating further deterioration over time in gait, balance, physical activity, depression, fear of falling, and motor capacity in older adults. 163 ambulatory older adults (age = 76.5 ± 7.7 years) participated and were followed for 6 months. They were classified into fallers or non-fallers based on a history of falling within the past year. At baseline and 6 months, all participants were objectively assessed for gait, balance, and physical activity using wearable sensors. Additional assessments included psychosocial concerns (depression and fear of falling) and motor capacity (Timed Up and Go test). The fallers showed lower gait performance, less physical activity, lower depression level, higher fear of falling, and less motor capacity than non-fallers at baseline and 6-month follow-up. Results also revealed acceleration in physical activity and motor capacity decline compared to non-fallers at a 6-month follow-up. Our findings suggest that falls would accelerate deterioration in both physical activity and motor performance and highlight the need for effective therapy to reduce the consequences of falls in older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Park
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- VA’s Health Services Research and Development Service (HSR&D), Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Big Data Scientist Training Enhancement Program, VA Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC 20420, USA
| | - Md Moin Uddin Atique
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ramkinker Mishra
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bijan Najafi
- Interdisciplinary Consortium on Advanced Motion Performance (iCAMP), Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|