[Diabetes-related foot problems].

Foot ulcers due to neuropathy and/or ischemia, often complicated by infection, are a leading cause of hospitalisation and amputation in diabetic patients. Sensory neuropathy, foot abnormality, missing pulses and previous history of ulcers or amputation are risk factors for ulceration. Regular examination of feet and protective footwear reduce this risk. Off-loading the ulcer area promotes healing. Revascularisation improves the blood supply in cases where it has been compromised. Systemic antibiotics are only required in the case of acute foot infections and osteomyelitis with an underlying ulcer. Prevention and treatment of foot ulceration by multidisciplinary teams, including podiatric services, decreases amputations by up to 85%.