The diabetic foot

Foot ulceration in diabetes mellitus is common. Foot problems remain the most common cause of hospital admission among patients with diabetes mellitus in developed countries. The lifetime risk of a patient with diabetes developing an ulcer may be as high as 30%, and up to 85% of all lower limb amputations in diabetes are preceded by foot ulcers. Up to 50% of older patients with type 2 diabetes have risk factors for foot problems, and regular screening by careful clinical examination is essential; those found to be at risk should attend more regular follow-up, with education in foot self-care.