Total contact casts were better than removable cast walkers or half shoes for healing diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers.

Patients 75 patients with diabetes who had clinically significant loss of protective sensation ( > 25 V) as measured with a biothesiometer, >1 palpable foot pulse or a transcutaneous oximetry measurement > 40 mm Hg at the dorsum of the fore foot, and a superficial neuropathic plantar diabetic foot ulcer corresponding to grade 1A (University of Texas Diabetic Wound Classification System). Exclusion criteria were active infection; wounds in locations on the heel, rear foot, or area other than the plantar aspect of the foot; severe peripheral vascular disease; or inability to walk without wheelchair assistance. 63 patients (83% men) completed follow up.