OAR@UM Collection:

Biomechanical and clinical outcomes of a novel hallux valgus sock : a clinical study ΙΙ

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Biomechanical and clinical outcomes of a novel hallux valgus sock : a clinical study ΙΙ Authors: Arvanitakis, E.; Formosa, Cynthia; Gatt, Alfred; Tsirakos, D. Abstract: Background: Hallux Valgus (HV) is a common forefoot deformity, which is associated with pain, changed biomechanics, and functional limitations. The conservative management options are poorly defined in practice, but there may be opportunities for novel, low-cost treatment options.; Objective: The aim was to investigate the effect of a novel HV sock on plantar pressure distribution in people with HV compared to controls and as a stand-alone intervention.; Methods: A prospective, randomized controlled, pre–post experimental design was used and was undertaken with 100 participants (50 control and 50 experimental). The intervention group wore the HV sock on a daily basis for 6-months, and the control group received their usual podiatry care. Baseline, 3-month, and 6-month plantar pressure distribution measured in both groups were assessed using a pressure mapping system that included regions; hallux, 1st MTPJ, 2-3rd , and 4-5th MTPJs. Statistical analysis was conducted using a mixed model ANOVA, to investigate any differences between groups over time.; Results: The experimental group had statistically significant reductions in plantar pressure for all regions (P < 0.001) at 6-months while the control group increased previously established pressures in the forefoot. For example, hallux pressures decreased from 243.13 ± 75 to 185.50 ± 58 gr/cm² (left foot) and 259.80 ± 87 to 189.44 ± 69 gr/cm² (right foot) while the control group increased considerably for all PAL measures.; Conclusions: The novel HV sock reduced pathological loading patterns in the forefoot and re-distributed plantar pressure; representing a new conservative intervention for patients with mild to moderate HV. Large scale, long-term studies need to be completed, to determine the practical effectiveness.

Primary care nurses’ knowledge and attitudes towards the management and prevention of diabetic foot ulcers

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Primary care nurses’ knowledge and attitudes towards the management and prevention of diabetic foot ulcers Authors: Faenza, Rachel; Formosa, Cynthia; Scicluna Ward, Corinne Abstract: Background: Nurses working in primary care are well positioned to be key health care professionals to prevent and manage diabetic foot ulceration (DFU). They play a crucial role in identifying and managing predisposing factors of DFU. Thus, having sound knowledge about DFU care and a positive attitude towards these patients is very important in promoting patient-centred care.; Aim: To evaluate primary care nurses’ knowledge and attitudes towards the management and prevention of DFU in the primary healthcare centres in Malta.; Design: A cross-sectional design was selected.; Method: An online questionnaire was distributed to all nurses who work in wound care clinics within the primary health care centres in Malta (n=105). A total of 50 questionnaires were returned generating a response rate of 48%.; Results: The results showed that primary care nurses had a suboptimal knowledge of DFU management and prevention, with an average score of 57.38%. No significant relationship was found between knowledge scores and sociodemographic factors. While nurses had an overall positive attitude toward DFU care, with a mean score of 79.5%, some negative attitudes were noted, including concerns about the time-consuming nature of DFU care and the inability to educate every patient on prevention. There was a significant correlation between positive attitudes and interest in DFU care (p=0.005), as well as between knowledge and attitude scores (p=0.006).; Conclusion: This study highlights that primary care nurse have suboptimal knowledge about management and prevention of DFU, however, an overall positive attitude towards care for patients with DFU. More specialised training courses offered to nurses on a continuous basis are needed to ensure optimal quality of care towards patients with diabetes. Nurses should be given an incentive to attend these courses to develop their skills, keep abreast with evidence-based practices and optimise the provision of care.

Biomechanical and clinical outcomes of a novel hallux valgus sock : a clinical study

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Biomechanical and clinical outcomes of a novel hallux valgus sock : a clinical study Authors: Arvanitakis, E.; Formosa, Cynthia; Gatt, Alfred; Tsirakos, D. Abstract: Hallux valgus (HAV) is a common foot condition that is characterized by the great toe’s lateral displacement and this can result in pain, biomechanical changes, and quality of life concerns. A global systematic review and meta-analysis recently reported that the general prevalence rate is about 19% and it is higher in females and individuals over the age of 60 years. The natural history and management of HAV is variable and can be managed conservatively with orthoses and physical therapy, or, in some circumstances, manage with surgical intervention. The purpose of this study assesses the efficacy of a new hallux valgus sock to reduce the symptoms associated with HAV. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effect of the sock on the hallux valgus angle, pain, and overall quality of life. The results from this study show that wearing the HAV sock decreased the hallux valgus angle, reduced peak plantar pressures, and improved muscle function while walking. This suggests that the HAV sock could be utilized as an emerging conservative alternative to surgery in individuals with HAV.

The introduction of podiatric telemedicine for wound care management - an alternate model of care

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Title: The introduction of podiatric telemedicine for wound care management - an alternate model of care Authors: Stojmanovski Mercieca, Lisa Ann; Chockalingam, Nachiappan; Formosa, Cynthia Abstract: Telemedicine has been a fundamental component of healthcare for many decades, although its widespread adoption significantly accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This unprecedented global health crisis compelled healthcare institutions to rapidly innovate and shift to remote care options, highlighting the potential of virtual healthcare delivery. This article seeks to look at the emergence of podiatric telemedicine for the management of high-risk feet as an alternate model of care to help reach more high-risk patients in a timely manner. By concentrating on this specific field, we aim to put forward the implementation of podiatric telemedicine as a viable supplementary service for high-risk patients. Researchers and healthcare professionals should work towards implementing such services aimed at preventing complications in the high-risk foot by offering timely care and advice.