Thesis

Investigating the effect of simulated diabetic claw toe deformity on the gait patterns of healthy adults

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Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 2012
Thesis identifier
  • T13253
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Abstract
  • Background: In the UK, approximately 2.9 million people currently have diabetes mellitus (DM), with that number expected to reach 5 million by 2025. DM amputation and ulceration greatly impact NHS budgets and individuals' quality of life. Neuropathy, ischemia and high plantar pressures are reported as the main risk factors in development of ulceration, with the latter being increased in the presence of structural foot abnormalities, such as claw toe deformity (CTD). Areas of high pressure have been shown to correlate with common ulcer sites including MTPJs and hallux; however, little research has been carried out to identify the links between foot deformity, gait changes and ulcer development. Research Rational: Numerous studies report the effect of DM on normal gait patterns. However, the multi-factorial aetiology of DM gait modifications makes the investigation of single factors problematic. By simulating CTD in healthy participants, gait changes owing to the deformity may be studied in isolation by removing the influence of concomitant DM complications such as neuropathy. Findings may inform future practice by enabling clinicians to better understand the pathways linking CTD, gait, and plantar pressures; hence assisting them to both assess and reduce ulcer risk in DM individuals, and to identify areas requiring further investigation. Aims: To infer whether significant differences in spatiotemporal, kinetic and kinematic gait parameters occur in DM individuals with CTD when compared to healthy adults. Methods: Design and verification (against current literature sources) of a device to simulate diabetic CTD was completed. Gait data was obtained at self selected walking speed using a Vicon 3D motion analysis system and Kistler force platform for 12 healthy participants wearing a CTD device. Participants acted as their own controls (by removing device). Statistical analysis of spatiotemporal, kinetic and kinematic gait parameter data collected from both groups was carried out.
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DOI
Date Created
  • 2012
Former identifier
  • 948104

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