Footwear

Footwear plays a crucial role in the care of patients affected by leprosy, particularly those with insensitive feet. In order to prevent ulcer formation and recurrence, it is essential to provide appropriate footwear and educate patients about its importance. At the Naini footwear department, two skilled shoe technicians specialize in crafting a wide range of footwear, including MCR sandals and artificial limbs.

For patients with insensitive feet that appear normal or slightly misaligned, MCR sandals are prescribed. In cases where the foot is disintegrated, moulded shoes or sandals with a soft insole, customized to fit the contours of the patient’s foot, are provided. When patients have an unstable ankle joint, a thermoplastic Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO) is preferred. In situations where the foot is absorbed and shortened, PTB (patellar tendon-bearing) technology is employed, which aids in distributing some of the body weight to the knee muscles.

In the most severe cases involving foot or leg amputation, artificial limbs are meticulously crafted to enable patients to regain their mobility and stand on their own feet once again.