Diabetic foot ulcers are a real concern for the 422 million people worldwide living with diabetes. The ulcers are cause by a number of factors, including peripheral neuropathy and changes in the bony architecture of the foot, and can be very difficult to treat.
The World Health Organization says that about 25 percent of people dealing with diabetes will develop some type of diabetic foot condition, with many only solved through amputation. HCi Viocare (OTCQB:VICA) is aiming to provide a global solution with its Smart Diabetic Walker Boot.
Thursday morning, the Glasgow, Scotland-based company said that it has made the first shipment of the world's first boot of its kind, representing a new market segment opportunity exclusive to HCi.
In the U.S. alone, the costs associated with diabetic foot ulcers are in excess of $13 billion annually.
HCi Viocare's Flexisense technology is a next-generation application for wearable "smart" devices. With Flexisense, a network of sensors in the insole of a shoe delivers a bevy of information, including recording sheer forces and analyze running style. As it's collected, data is transmitted wirelessly in real-time for analysis and record keeping.
The smart walker boot of Hci Viocare allows clinicians to identify high pressure or sheer force areas without removing the boot, meaning wounds can be treated more efficiently, and potentially even prevented, which can reduce healthcare cost burden and improve the quality of life for diabetes patients.
The proprietary boot can also transmit usage data through the Internet of Things, a part of compliance requirements by insurance companies necessary for coverage.
Shares of VICA are trading up 4.2% in Thursday action, holding at 12.5 cents with about 2-1/2 hours left in the trading day.
