This module will focus on how diabetes affects biomechanics of the lower limb specifically the foot and will specifically look at the following areas
- Short review of physiology and pathology in diabetes
- Complications associated with the disease process impact on musculoskeletal problems and dysfunction as well as tissue viability.
- Define the causes and management of diabetic ulcerations with a strong emphasis on the biomechanical framework underpinning the prevention and treatment of diabetic foot disease.
- Impact surgical intervention has on gait
- Investigate the modalities of footwear, orthoses and padding in the management of the diabetic foot.
- Diabetic complications on locomotion will be investigated and concepts tested within the Biomechanics and Gait Analysis Laboratory.

Assessment 1: A report describing a case study of a condition that you are currently managing, and your recommended intervention informed by Mechanics of Diabetic Foot principles. Assignment 1 covers LO’s: 1&3.
Assessment 2: A report containing 3 selected topics which will include personal research, reading, example materials and reflection (600 words on each topic). Assignment 2 covers LO’s: 2&4.

This blended learning module will be a hybrid delivery with online material to study as well as face to face sessions for practical skills and demonstrations. Discussions within the practical sessions as well as online are encouraged to share ideas, thoughts and critique the tasks that are delivered as part of the module. Formative feedback will be a common thread through class tasks online and in person as well as tutorial sessions developed to build and lead the skills of the student.
All pre course reading materials and course documentation will be available through blackboard. It will be necessary for students to engage fully in the Black Board activities and tasks, and they are encouraged to participate in the discussion forums within blackboard to enhance the teaching / learning experience. This will consist of several Activities and Tasks, from which students will be asked to actively contribute to electronic based discussions.

1. Evaluate through research, reflection and personal practice how the application of mechanical principles can aid the management of diabetic foot complications
Application, Communication, Reflection

2. Critically apply differing modalities including footwear and orthoses can be used in the management of diabetic lower limb complications.
Application, Enquiry, Knowledge & Understanding

3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of foot biomechanics and diabetic wound care in the formulation of a management plan reflecting on the multidisciplinary nature of care. Enquiry
Knowledge & Understanding, Learning, Reflection

4. Demonstrate a knowledge of common lower limb complications that arise as a result of the imposed structural and functional alterations by diabetes.
Enquiry, Problem Solving, Learning

In addition to standard library and IT facilities, the students in this module will require:
Anatomical models
Presentation tools - (computer facilities)
Clinical Facilities - couches, biomechanical measuring devices. Gait analysis equipment. Access to the biomechanics facility in the Science Centre

Core
Edmonds, M E. Foster, A V M (2014). Managing the diabetic foot. 3rd Ed., Blackwell ISBN - 9780470655054

Armstrong, D G. Lavery, L A .(2010) Clinical Care of the diabetic foot. Amer Diabetes Assn

Levin, M. E., & O'Neal, L. W. (2008). Levin and O'Neal's the diabetic foot. J. H. Bowker, & M. A. Pfeifer (Eds.). Elsevier Health Sciences.

Recommended:

Boulton, A. J., Cavanagh, P. R., & Rayman, G. (Eds.). (2006). The foot in diabetes. John Wiley & Sons.

Students have to be an allied health professional registered with the HCPC, sports therapist or biomechanist who support allied health professionals or a medical professional. All of whom are involved in musculoskeletal practice

The formation of foot ulcers have been linked to the mechanical failure of the soft tissues of the foot. This module bridges the clinical gap between traditional practices in tissue viability to highlight the growing understanding of the complex mechanics involved in diabetic foot care. By advancing your knowledge around pressure measurement, balance, offloading and casting as well as building on theoretical concepts around diabetic foot pathologies you will be equipped to provide preventative care to patients. Providing a different perspective to management of the diabetic foot utilising mechanical principles will merge clinical practices around diabetic foot complications.