Feet and systemic disease.

Diabetes mellitus and rheumatoid arthritis often affect the foot. Indeed in either of these, the foot is commonly the initial site of symptoms. Early diagnosis appropriate treatment can prevent or at least slow the progression of the disease in the foot. Extra depth shoes and moulded inserts are the keystone of non operative treatment. Surgery is indicated when the deformity is severe. Surgery does have good results in rheumatoid arthritis but in diabetes mellitus it is usually reserved as a salvage procedure.