Amputation as a consequence of diabetes mellitus. An epidemiological review.

Amputation as a consequence of diabetes mellitus is becoming an increasingly serious public health problem and a problem that is commonly treated in the physical therapy clinic. Traditionally, physical therapists have devoted most of their efforts to treating the residual limb and have neglected caring for the other leg. This review examines the epidemiology of diabetic gangrene with consequent amputation and provides ideas for preventive measures and research directed at decreasing the occurrence of gangrene and its complications.