Sparks of Healing: How Piezoelectricity Could Transform Diabetic Foot Care
Description
This episode explains the piezoelectric effect—how mechanical stress creates tiny electrical signals—and how those signals guide cell migration, angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and epithelialization in wound healing.
It describes how diabetes weakens natural bioelectrical cues through neuropathy, poor circulation, and collagen changes, and reviews clinical approaches that restore or mimic these signals: electrical stimulation, low‑intensity ultrasound, and emerging piezoelectric dressings and wearables.
The episode also covers practical limitations (cost, compliance, lack of standard protocols) and highlights future directions like nanotech dressings, piezoelectric insoles, and AI‑guided devices that could make step‑powered healing a valuable adjunct in limb salvage.
United States
