Empowering diabetic foot ulcer prevention: A novel cloud-based plantar pressure monitoring system for enhanced self-care

Background This study was prompted by the crucial impact of abnormal plantar pressure on diabetic foot ulcer development and the notable lack of its monitoring in daily life. Our research introduces a cloud-based, user-friendly plantar pressure monitoring system designed for seamless integration into daily routines. Objective This innovative system aims to enable early ulcer prediction and proactive prevention, thereby substantially improving diabetic foot care through enhanced self-care and timely intervention. Methods A novel, user-centric plantar pressure monitoring system was developed, integrating a wearable device, mobile application, and cloud computing for instantaneous diabetic foot care. This configuration facilitates comprehensive monitoring at 64 underfoot points. It encourages user engagement in health management. The system wirelessly transmits data to the cloud, where insights are processed and made available on the app, fostering proactive self-care through immediate feedback. Tailored for daily use, our system streamlines home monitoring, enhancing early ulcer detection and preventative measures. Results A feasibility study validated our system's accuracy, demonstrating a relative error of approximately 4% compared to a commercial pressure sensing walkway. This precision affirms the system's efficacy for home-based monitoring and its potential in diabetic foot ulcer prevention, positioning it as a viable instrument for self-managed care. Conclusions The system dynamically captures and analyzes plantar pressure distribution and gait cycle details, highlighting its utility in early diabetic foot ulcer detection and management. Offering real-time, actionable data, it stands as a critical tool for individuals to actively participate in their foot health care, epitomizing the essence of self-managed healthcare practices.