Foot ulcers are one of the most serious and common complications of diabetes—but what if we could spot the risk before an ulcer ever forms? That’s exactly what pressure mapping helps us do. By analysing how weight and pressure are distributed across your feet, we can catch early warning signs and step in with the right treatment. In this post, we’ll explain how pressure mapping works and why it’s such a valuable tool in diabetic foot care.

Why Diabetic Feet Need Extra Attention

Diabetes affects both circulation and nerve function in the feet. Poor circulation can slow healing, while nerve damage (neuropathy) can make it harder to feel pain or pressure. This combination means small issues like pressure points or blisters can turn into serious ulcers without being noticed.

That’s why prevention is key—and pressure mapping gives us a window into how your feet function before damage occurs.

What Is Pressure Mapping?

Pressure mapping is a computerized test that measures the forces under your feet as you walk or stand. At Mary Moore Podiatry, we use a system called Tekscan Matscan®, which provides a detailed visual of how pressure is distributed during movement.

You’ll be asked to walk across a special platform or stand still while the system records:

• Areas where pressure is highest

• Differences between left and right feet

• Pressure timing as you step or shift weight

This simple, non-invasive assessment gives us a highly accurate picture of your foot mechanics—something we can’t see with the naked eye.

Why Is It Important for People with Diabetes?

Because many people with diabetes lose some or all feeling in their feet, they may not realise when too much pressure is building in a particular area—until a sore or ulcer appears.

Pressure mapping can identify these risk zones before a wound develops. It shows us:

• Where the most stress is happening during walking

• Which areas are at higher risk of skin breakdown

• How your shoes or orthotics are affecting your pressure points

This is especially important for those with foot deformities, previous ulcers, or high-risk feet.

How We Use the Results

Once we’ve identified high-pressure areas, we can take steps to protect your feet and reduce the risk of ulceration. This might include:

• Custom diabetic orthotics to redistribute pressure more evenly

• Footwear advice or changes to improve support and cushioning

• Foot mobilization therapy or stretching programs to improve function

• Monitoring and follow-up to ensure the pressure levels are improving over time

We’ll also combine this information with circulation testing and sensation checks as part of your complete diabetic foot screening.

What to Expect During a Pressure Mapping Appointment

There’s no need to prepare or be nervous—pressure mapping is quick, painless, and even quite interesting for many patients. You’ll:

• Walk or stand barefoot on the pressure mat

• Watch your results appear on-screen in real time

• Receive clear explanations from your podiatrist about what the data means

• Discuss any recommended next steps for treatment or prevention

Most patients find it reassuring to see where their risk lies and feel empowered to take action.

Who Should Have Pressure Mapping?

Pressure mapping is especially useful if you:

• Have diabetes and want to proactively prevent ulcers

• Have had a previous foot ulcer or wound

• Use orthotics or diabetic footwear

• Have altered foot shape or gait due to injury, surgery, or arthritis

• Feel foot discomfort without knowing the cause

At our Foot Clinics in Dublin 4 and Dublin 9, we routinely use pressure mapping for diabetic patients with moderate to high risk, or anyone experiencing persistent foot discomfort.

Conclusion

When it comes to diabetic foot care, knowledge is power. Pressure mapping offers a detailed look at how your feet handle movement and where they might be vulnerable. By identifying and correcting pressure issues early, we can prevent serious complications like ulcers—and help you stay mobile, independent, and healthy.

If you or a loved one has diabetes, consider booking a pressure mapping session with Mary Moore Podiatry. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.