<unk>  <unk>  is a specially designed cast designed to take weight off of the foot (off-loading) in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Reducing pressure on the wound by taking weight off the foot has proven to be very effective in DFU treatment. DFUs are a major factor leading to lower leg amputations among the diabetic population in the US with 85% of amputations in diabetics being preceded by a DFU. Furthermore, the five-year post-amputation mortality rate among diabetics is estimated at around 45% for those suffering from neuropathic DFUs.<unk>  has been used for off-loading DFUs in the US since the mid-1960s and is regarded by many practitioners as the "reference standard" for off-loading the bottom surface (sole) of the foot.<unk>  involves encasing the patient’s complete foot, including toes, and the lower leg in a specialist cast that redistributes weight and pressure in the lower leg and foot during everyday movements. This redistributes pressure from the foot into the leg, which is more able to bear weight, to protect the wound, letting it regenerate tissue and heal.<unk>  also keeps the ankle from rotating during walking, which prevents shearing and twisting forces that can further damage the wound. Effective off-loading is a key treatment modality for DFUs, particularly those where there is damage to the nerves in the feet (peripheral neuropathy). Along with infection management and vascular assessment,<unk>  is vital aspect to effectively managing DFUs.<unk>  is the most effective and reliable method for off-loading DFUs. __TOC__
Total contact casting
Vacuum splint
Auricular splint
Heel lift
Traction splint
Pressure immobilisation technique
Military brace
Mustard plaster