Foot assessment in patients with diabetes.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes has long been associated with increased risk of foot ulceration and lower extremity amputation.

OBJECTIVE

This article briefly describes the risk factors, assessments and management of people with diabetes, to guide physicians to identify and appropriately refer people with diabetes at risk of foot problems.

DISCUSSION

The literature is clear that the presence of peripheral neuropathy associated with diabetes, foot deformity, peripheral arterial disease, and poor glycaemic control increase the risk of foot complications. By annually undertaking foot screening of all people with diabetes, those at risk can be identified and referred for appropriate management. Until screening is undertaken regularly on all patients with diabetes, the currently high rates of foot ulceration and lower extremity amputation will continue.