A three-day short course on the redistribution of pressure in the diabetic foot.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from insufficient insulin production, impaired insulin action, or both, leading to chronic complications affecting multiple organs. The global prevalence of diabetes has risen dramatically, driven by population growth and ageing. It is a leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputation, with one in four individuals developing a foot problem requiring care. People with diabetes face a significantly higher risk of foot ulcers, gangrene, and amputation. This course focuses on preventing and managing diabetic foot complications using evidence-based guidelines and promoting safe physical activity supported by orthotics and individualized interventions.
Objectives
Apply standardized screening and risk classification tools to assess diabetic foot risk, identify at least three key pathological mechanisms (neuropathy, skin barrier dysfunction, and impaired wound healing), and develop an evidence-based prevention or management plan for a simulated patient case.
Measure and interpret plantar pressure data, perform structured wound assessments using standardized tools, and implement at least two evidence-based conservative management strategies for diabetic foot ulcerations during a practical demonstration.
Conduct foot pressure mapping and scanning, design a pressure-redistributing footwear or orthotic modification based on collected data, and formulate a coordinated multidisciplinary management plan that integrates patient self-management strategies for diabetic foot care.
Apply standardized screening and risk classification tools to assess diabetic foot risk, identify at least three key pathological mechanisms (neuropathy, skin barrier dysfunction, and impaired wound healing), and develop an evidence-based prevention or management plan for a simulated patient case.
Measure and interpret plantar pressure data, perform structured wound assessments using standardized tools, and implement at least two evidence-based conservative management strategies for diabetic foot ulcerations during a practical demonstration.
Conduct foot pressure mapping and scanning, design a pressure-redistributing footwear or orthotic modification based on collected data, and formulate a coordinated multidisciplinary management plan that integrates patient self-management strategies for diabetic foot care.
Outcome
In Tanzania, limited access to specialized foot care services, delayed presentation, inadequate screening, and gaps in multidisciplinary management contribute to preventable complications. Strengthening early identification of at-risk feet, structured risk classification, pressure redistribution strategies, and evidence-based wound care is therefore critical. A short course targeting prosthetic/orthotic clinicians, nurses, podiatrists, rehabilitation professionals, and technicians will build practical competencies in screening, conservative management, footwear and orthotic design, and patient self-management support.
Conclusion
The course integrates evidence-based guidelines with context-appropriate approaches, including the use of plantar pressure assessment, individualized offloading strategies, and monitoring tools that enhance adherence and reduce ulcer risk. This training directly supports limb preservation efforts, reduces avoidable amputations, and strengthens diabetes-related rehabilitation services within the Tanzanian health system by equipping healthcare providers with standardized assessment methods and coordinated multidisciplinary care strategies.
In Tanzania, limited access to specialized foot care services, delayed presentation, inadequate screening, and gaps in multidisciplinary management contribute to preventable complications. Strengthening early identification of at-risk feet, structured risk classification, pressure redistribution strategies, and evidence-based wound care is therefore critical. A short course targeting prosthetic/orthotic clinicians, nurses, podiatrists, rehabilitation professionals, and technicians will build practical competencies in screening, conservative management, footwear and orthotic design, and patient self-management support.
Conclusion
The course integrates evidence-based guidelines with context-appropriate approaches, including the use of plantar pressure assessment, individualized offloading strategies, and monitoring tools that enhance adherence and reduce ulcer risk. This training directly supports limb preservation efforts, reduces avoidable amputations, and strengthens diabetes-related rehabilitation services within the Tanzanian health system by equipping healthcare providers with standardized assessment methods and coordinated multidisciplinary care strategies.
Pictured above are participants engaged in the three-day PhD Symposium, successfully conducted by KCMC University from 21st to 23rd January 2026. This session, focusing on diabetic foot care, marked an important academic milestone.
