Stepping into the future with ACADI

Peripheral neuropathy refers to nerve damage in the hands and lower limbs, which affects almost one in two people living with diabetes. This damage causes loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and ulcers. For people living with diabetes, this can result in balance issues, frequent falls, and debilitating pain.

Meet Professor Paul Breen

At the centre of this innovative research is Professor Paul Breen, a leading biomedical engineer whose team is developing a device known as the ‘Feeling Aid’. The technology is non-invasive and uses sub-sensory electrical neural stimulation (SENS) to restore sensation in the feet of people living with diabetes.

This breakthrough technology has the potential to prevent falls, foot ulcers, and even amputations.

The Feeling Aid device, gently delivers electrical stimulation and is designed to increase the body’s natural neural signals, offering:

Reduced risk of diabetic foot ulcers
Improved mobility and independence
Lower long-term healthcare costs

This innovation demonstrates ACADI’s mission: to translate world-class research into real-world solutions that improve lives.

Current Status of the Feeling Aid (as of 2025)

The Feeling Aid is currently in the research and development stage, with a focus on co-design involving people with lived experience of diabetes.

“We're not just focused on the technology itself. We understand that for it to truly make a difference, it needs to fit seamlessly into people's everyday lives. That's why we're putting a lot of effort into codesign with patients and clinicians, making sure our device is user-friendly and practical for everyday use,” Professor Paul Breen states.

The project is moving toward pilot trials. These are small-scale studies conducted in real-world settings to primarily evaluate usability and acceptability. Larger clinical trials are expected following successful pilot testing.

ACADI and DIIF

ACADI, a collaborative centre led by Professor Elif Ekinci and headquartered at the University of Melbourne, unites over 70 partners across Australia and internationally. Its purpose is to deliver novel interventions for timely diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diabetes and its complications.

Now, with the Diabetes Innovation Impact Foundation (DIIF) coming on board as a long-term partner and funder, ACADI’s impact is set to grow exponentially.

This partnership signals a new era for diabetes care in Australia. With DIIF’s backing, ACADI is poised to launch new projects as well as train the next generation of diabetes researchers and clinicians.

The collaboration between ACADI and DIIF is more than a research initiative, it’s a movement that invites clinicians, innovators, policymakers, and people living with diabetes to join forces in reshaping the future of care.

“ACADI is uniquely positioned to improve the lives of millions of people in Australia and overseas, and to set Australia as a global leader in innovations for diabetes,” states Professor Ekinci.

With the support of the DIIF, ACADI is not only transforming lives today but laying the groundwork for a healthier, more equitable future.

Support the next breakthrough

Imagine what the future could look like if more programs that meet people where they are, were possible. Programs that treat the whole person not just the condition. Research that makes health care more human.

You can help make that future a reality.

By donating to DIIF, you’re helping fund the next innovative research that listens, learns, and leads to better health outcomes.

Donate today to support life-changing research.