Pressure reducing capacity of felt: A feasibility study using a new portable system with thin sensors

• The clinical utility of thin flexible sensors for assessing vertical forces acting onto the foot is explored.
• Off-loading capacity of felt is documented at the level of the skin.
• U-shaped felt therapy may increase pressure in other forefoot regions.

Pressure redistribution and off-loading is a vital component in the management of the foot in diabetes. In the present study, a new portable system encompassing thin piezoresistors was tested for clinical utility and efficacy with respect to a commonly used pressure relieving dressing for the foot in diabetes.