Specialized casting to redistribute pressure and force the healing of diabetic foot ulcers.
Healix360 supports access to advanced mobile wound care services for patients throughout our coverage area. Services are delivered by licensed physicians and nurse practitioners experienced in the evaluation and management of chronic and complex wounds. Care is coordinated and provided directly to patients in private residences, assisted living communities, and skilled nursing facilities. A diabetic foot ulcer on the bottom of the foot will never heal if the patient continues to walk on it, driving the tissue into the bone with every step. TCC works by redistributing the patient's weight away from the ulcerated area and dispersing it evenly across the entire surface of the lower leg and foot. Furthermore, because the cast is non-removable, it enforces 100% compliance, physically preventing the patient from walking unprotected.
A licensed clinician determines whether this treatment is appropriate after evaluating the wound and the patient's medical history.
Treatment decisions are individualized. Potential contraindications and precautions may include:
After wound care is performed, the clinician will carefully wrap your foot and leg in protective padding, paying special attention to bony prominences. They will then apply a lightweight fiberglass cast material. Once dry, you will be given a cast shoe to allow safe, limited mobility. The cast is typically cut off with a specialized saw and reapplied by the clinician every 1 to 2 weeks as the swelling decreases and the wound heals.
According to the American Diabetes Association and multiple meta-analyses, Total Contact Casting yields significantly higher healing rates (often >85% closure in 12 weeks) and faster healing times for diabetic foot ulcers compared to any other offloading modality, primarily due to enforced patient compliance.
Clinical studies show that patients only wear removable boots for about 30% of their daily steps. Because you have neuropathy, you do not feel the damage occurring when you walk to the bathroom at night without the boot. TCC ensures the foot is protected 100% of the time.
No. Modern Total Contact Casts are made of highly advanced, lightweight fiberglass or specialized roll-on casting materials, making them much lighter and easier to walk in than traditional plaster casts.
No. You cannot safely operate a vehicle with a cast on your right foot, as it severely impairs your ability to feel and utilize the pedals. If the cast is on your left foot, you should still consult your physician regarding safety.
The cast must remain completely dry. You will need to use a waterproof cast protector (a specialized heavy-duty plastic sleeve) when showering, or take sponge baths while keeping the leg outside the tub.
As your leg swelling decreases over the week, the cast may begin to feel loose. If you experience rubbing, pistoning, or new pain, you must contact our clinical team immediately so the cast can be removed and replaced to prevent new sores.
Call 877-545-1300 or request a provider to begin care. Healix360 serves Southern California and Nevada and accepts Medicare Part B and most major insurance plans.