A Step Toward Healing: Beating a Trophic Ulcer with Custom Footwear
Situation
One and a half years ago, 17-year-old Jay was diagnosed with Koch’s spine—a serious spinal infection that required intensive medical treatment followed by a full year of physiotherapy. While the infection was brought under control, it left behind lasting effects:
weakened leg muscles,
reduced sensation, and
an altered posture and gait.
Complication
As Jay continued his daily commute from Andheri to Borivali for NEET coaching classes, the strain on his feet began to show. He developed a trophic ulcer under his right heel, which progressed into a deep wound nearly one inch in depth. Despite intermittent medication and home dressings, the ulcer refused to heal.
The missing link? Constant pressure on the wound during travel. Every step Jay took was unknowingly crushing the fragile healing tissues.
Solution
We stepped in with a targeted intervention—customized insoles and home footwear designed to offload pressure from the ulcer site. But first, we ruled out any bone infection with an X-ray. Thankfully, his heel bone was clear.
Impact
Within just two weeks, signs of healing emerged. Given the depth of the ulcer, we had anticipated a recovery period of 3–4 months. But Jay’s youth, discipline, and consistent use of corrective footwear accelerated the process. His ulcer healed completely in just 2.5 months.
Case Study