An Exploratory Study on the Detection of Diabetic Foot Skin Damage Using Quantitative Mechanical Parameters of Plantar Skin

Diabetes represents one of the major chronic diseases, with diabetic ulcers being a significant adverse prognosis. Approximately 80% of lower limb amputations are attributed to diabetic foot ulcers, which constitute a primary cause of patient disability and mortality, while also imposing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Although standardized Western medical protocols for diabetic foot management exist, clinical outcomes remain suboptimal. The amputation rate due to diabetic foot ulcers continues to rise annually, underscoring the urgent need for novel and effective interventions to address this condition.

Quantitative assessment of cutaneous biomechanical parameters may indirectly reflect the cumulative damage inflicted by diabetes on foot tissues. Such evaluation provides critical guidance for predicting susceptibility to recurrent ulceration and determining the necessity of enhanced offloading strategies to prevent ulcer development. By applying specific mechanical loads to the skin and measuring deformation, rebound characteristics, and displacement dynamics under pressure, it becomes possible to quantitatively evaluate parameters such as elastic modulus and viscoelastic properties.

This case-control study aims to investigate the feasibility of utilizing plantar skin quantitative mechanical parameters as objective biomarkers for biomechanical impairment in diabetic foot. Furthermore, it seeks to establish a standardized operating procedure (SOP) for quantitative measurements tailored to diabetic foot scenarios. The study is designed to bridge critical evidence gaps between theoretical consensus and clinically applicable quantitative tools, demonstrating clear innovation and potential clinical value.