Foot ulcers and other foot problems are one of the commonest causes of morbidity, significant disability and even mortality, amongst diabetics in our country.

Diabetics account for the second largest group of people undergoing lower limb amputations (after accidents) in our country.

Foot problems are also the reason for repeated hospital admissions and prolonged indoor stay.

The frequency and the severity of foot problems can be decreased with adequate foot evaluation and, as importantly, patient education about foot care.

All patients at the time of diagnosis and annually, must undergo a comprehensive foot evaluation which includes a complete vascular, neurological, musculoskeletal, skin and soft tissue examination.

This comprehensive evaluation does not necessarily involve the use of sophisticated, complex and costly equipment; the use of a simple point based protocol(given below) allows delineation of most people at high, or increasing, risk for the development of foot problems; some patients may require more sophisticated evaluation.

Patients at high, or increasing, risk may require more frequent evaluations and proactive management.

Other Topics in the Medical section:

 | Diagnosis  |  Diet  |  Exercise  |  Oral Hypoglycemic Agents  |  Insulin Therapy  |  Monitoring Glycemic Controls  |  Complications  |  Associated Problems  |  Special Situations


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