Diabetes and risk of serious foot or leg problems

All patients with type 2 diabetes should be assessed annually for indications of risk factors predictive of foot ulcers and amputations. The foot examination should include inspection, evaluation of foot pulses and testing for loss of protective sensations (LOPS).

Initial screening for peripheral arterial disease should include screening for claudication and an assessment of the pedal pulses. Since many patients that suffer from peripheral arterial disease are asymptomatic, it may be wise to employ and ankle-brachial index (ABI).

Diabetes and risk of serious foot or leg problems

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Review Date: 5/20/2024

Reviewed By: Sandeep K. Dhaliwal, MD, board-certified in Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Springfield, VA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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