Clinical and Biomechanical Predictors of Forefoot Plantar Pressure in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy

Background and Objectives: Abnormal plantar pressure distribution is an important biomechanical risk factor for diabetic foot ulceration in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and peripheral neuropathy. Although several factors have been linked to increased forefoot plantar pressure, factors associated with the forefoot-to-rearfoot pressure ratio remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the clinical factors associated with the forefoot-to-rearfoot pressure ratio and peak forefoot pressure in this population. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional analysis of 84 individuals with T2D and peripheral neuropathy enrolled in a randomized controlled trial. Vibration perception threshold (VPT), passive ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, ankle stiffness, plantar pressure distribution, body mass index (BMI), HbA1c, duration of diabetes, and foot deformities were assessed. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with plantar pressure outcomes.