Abstract
BACKGROUND: Individuals with diabetes are often prescribed standard of care accommodative insoles to provide extra cushioning and prevent ulcers. Our pressure-based 3D printed custom accommodative insoles have proven effective in reducing plantar pressure in individuals with diabetes. Given that older adults with diabetes have exacerbated balance deficits due to neuropathy, it is essential to examine the impact of these custom accommodative insoles on postural balance in individuals with diabetes. Therefore, the purpose is to examine the effects of custom accommodative insoles on balance during quiet standing in individuals with diabetes. METHODS: Standard of care and pressure-based 3D printed custom accommodative insoles were designed from foot impressions obtained from ten participants with diabetes. Postural balance was assessed during quiet standing for three conditions: no insole, standard of care, and pressure-based 3D printed custom accommodative insoles. Center of pressure measures were computed for all three conditions, and differences between the three insole conditions were evaluated. FINDINGS: There were no significant differences in the center of pressure measures across the insole conditions. Use of standard of care and pressure-based 3D printed custom accommodative insoles did not negatively affect the postural balance during quiet standing compared to the no insole condition. INTERPRETATION: This pilot study provides useful information on how the custom accommodative insoles used to prevent ulcers in individuals with diabetes affect postural balance. Static postural balance is not adversely impacted with the use of custom accommodative insoles in individuals with diabetes.