This theme brings together research staff from clinical trials, dentistry, nursing, physiotherapy, podiatry, psychology and rehabilitation.
Our long-term aim is to translate the results from our published research to influence and inform everyday clinical practice to focus on the problems faced by people with diabetes and neuropathy. The group involves researchers, podiatrists, physiotherapists and people with diabetes. Together we apply specialist knowledge of diabetic foot ulcer management, foot pressure analysis, orthotic design, balance problems and walking disorders.
The team has secured grants in excess of £1 million pounds in collaboration with industry, other universities, and the NHS. Current studies in the portfolio include an automated 3D-printed insole, a novel balance enhancement insole, research examining balance control in people with diabetes and a clinical trial testing pressure data guided insoles.
The Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions research group aims to promote and support high quality research, innovation and impact associated with the design and evaluation of complex interventions. A specific focus of the theme (though not exclusively) is social inclusion, with research activity particularly involving marginalised groups and those with complex and co-morbid needs (e.g., poor mental health, addictions, and poor physical health). Interventions may be at individual, group, organisational, community and public health level and within our work they seek to change outcomes such as lifestyle, health and wellbeing and cost-effectiveness.
Rehabilitation is an integral part of health and social care delivery; extending from acute hospital based care through to care within the community. It encompasses the recovery, maintenance of function and prevention of avoidable complications in people who have resolving conditions (such as low back pain, head injury or stroke), and those whose condition is static or deteriorating (such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinsons disease or arthritis).
Our research in this area reflects the priority given by health and social care services to provide evidence based management of people with these broad-ranging conditions.