DARCO Relief Dual® Off‑Loading Shoe – Foot Injury & Wound Management

The DARCO Relief Dual® Off‑Loading Shoe is an advanced medical footwear solution designed for patients recovering from foot injuries, surgeries, or managing foot ulcers. It delivers targeted off‑loading to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas—like ulcers, surgical wounds or fractures—while maintaining support, stability, and comfort during the healing process.

Combining a lightweight build with a dual‑sole system and flexible insole options, the Relief Dual® aims to redistribute weight away from stress zones (forefoot, metatarsals, heel) and encourage safe mobility. Clinically suitable for conditions such as diabetic foot syndrome, post‑surgical recovery, toe or foot fractures, and chronic ulcer care, it is widely adopted by Australian hospitals, wound care centres and podiatry clinics.

Design & Technology

The Relief Dual® shoe is engineered to:

• Off-Load Pressure: Strong but lightweight structure shifts load from damaged or healing zones.
• Stabilise Joints: Rigid full-length shank helps immobilise MTP I & V and DIP joints to reduce strain.
• Dual-Sole Construction: EVA for shock absorption + rubber for grip and durability.
• High Heel Cap: Provides orthograde support and helps maintain foot alignment.
• Adjustable Heel Opening: Heel cap can open wide to accommodate bulky dressings or swelling.

Clinical Indications

• Post‑operative care (e.g. after osteotomies, bunion surgery, soft tissue procedures)
• Forefoot or metatarsal injuries or fractures
• Ulceration or wounds under metatarsal heads or toes
• Dorsal heel ulcers or wounds
• Chronic diabetic foot management requiring off‑loading
• Soft tissue trauma in foot or midfoot requiring stability and pressure relief

Primary Benefits

• Improved Stability: Enhances support during recovery, helping minimise secondary injuries.
• Shock Attenuation: Dual‑sole absorbs impact, reducing stress on vulnerable tissues.
• Targeted Pressure Relief: Redirects force away from wound or fracture zones to promote healing.
• Custom Insole Compatibility: Works with Relief Contour, PegAssist™, Puzzle and other DARCO insoles.
• Easy Adjustability: Hook‑and‑loop straps and heel cap adapt to swelling and bulky dressings.
• Universal Foot Fit: Designed to fit either the left or right foot, for patient convenience.

Usage Guidelines

1. Insert foot fully, ensuring heel is seated in the rear of the shoe structure.
2. Secure straps over forefoot, midfoot and ankle with even tension (not overly tight).
3. Fasten heel cap, adjusting to ensure the foot is held firmly without causing pressure points.
4. Begin ambulation gently, with weight‑bearing as advised by your health professional.
5. Use custom insoles (optional) where needed to further redistribute pressure for wounds or ulcers.

Contraindications & Precautions

• Do not drive while wearing this shoe—its altered geometry may impair control of vehicle pedals.
• Ensure proper sizing—oversizing or undersizing can reduce the off‑loading effect.
• Watch for signs of pressure, irritation or blistering if the shoe is not correctly aligned or fastened.
• Always follow the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional on usage duration, weight-bearing limits and mobility precautions.

Cleaning & Care

• Wipe the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap.
• Avoid fully immersing the shoe in water or machine washing.
• Allow the shoe to air-dry at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or radiator heat sources.
• Remove insoles to dry separately, if applicable.
• Inspect the straps, heel cap, outsole, and shank for signs of wear or degradation periodically.
• Replace the shoe if structural integrity is compromised to maintain off‑loading effectiveness.

Compatibility & Accessories

• Relief Contour Insole: Anatomically shaped insole that can redistribute pressure by up to 90%; trim-to-fit and made from self-recovering polyurethane.
• PegAssist™ Insole: Customisable for selective off-loading (especially in ulcer care).
• Puzzle Insole: Allows modular redistribution of pressure zones per patient needs.

Size Guidance & Fit Considerations

Refer to the brand’s sizing chart (AU/UK equivalents) when selecting. Consider that dressings, swelling or orthotic inserts may influence the final fit. A snug but not constrictive fit ensures optimal off-loading.