Insoles improve circulation

Walking on gel-filled insoles may reduce the risk of ulcers in people with diabetes.

Tests show the insoles can reduce pressure at the front of the foot as well as boosting circulation. Poor blood flow in the legs and feet is a characteristic of diabetes, which can lead to ulcers and wounds not healing properly.

Researchers from Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride carried out tests on Liqua Care insoles, which are said to make the muscles of the feet move more, encouraging blood flow.

A group of 21 diabetes patients aged between 40 and 77 wore the insoles for eight hours a day for two weeks. The results, published in the British Journal Of Diabetes And Vascular Disease, show pressure on the forefront of the foot — a major cause of ulcers — was reduced by 21.5 per cent.