Current Standards and Advances in Diabetic Ulcer Prevention and Elderly Fall Prevention Using Wearable Technology

Abstract The deleterious effects of diabetes on the lower extremity are numerous, costly, and complicated to treat. Many patients who develop a diabetes-related ulceration will eventually require lower extremity amputation, an outcome with well-described morbidity and mortal complications. Foremost in the many deteriorating effects of aging on lower extremity health are the development of peripheral neuropathies, development of peripheral arterial disease, loss of proprioceptive feedback, and loss of adequate function leading to increased falls. Current healthcare practice guidelines substantially improve the long-term care of older adults; however, they are often limited to semi-regular screenings and patient-reported symptoms. Future implementation of wearable, constant-monitoring technology has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by early detection and "pre-habilitative" therapy before the patient even needs to visit the clinic. This article addresses the current and future trends of lower extremity risk prevention with an emphasis on the implications of wearable, transdermal, and implantable constant-monitoring devices and powered exoskeletons.