Adherence and the Diabetic Foot: High Tech Meets High Touch?

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers, which are a common complication of diabetes, can have a negative impact on a person’s physical and mental health, including an increased risk of depression. Patients suffering from depression are less likely to keep up with diabetic foot care, thus increasing the risk of developing ulcers. However, with the use of artificial intelligence (AI), at-home patient care has become easier, which increases adherence. To better understand how new technologies, including machine learning algorithms and wearable sensors, might improve patient adherence and outcomes, we conducted a literature review of several sensor technologies, including SmartMat© and Siren Care© socks for temperature, SurroSense Rx/Orpyx© for pressure, and Orthotimer© for adherence. An initial search identified 143 peer-reviewed manuscripts, from which we selected a total of 10 manuscripts for further analysis. We examined the potential benefits of personalized content and clinician support for those receiving mobile health interventions. These findings may help to demonstrate the current and future utility of advanced technologies in improving patient adherence and outcomes, particularly in the context of diabetes management and the link between behavior and complications in diabetes, such as diabetic foot ulcers.