Diabetic foot problems

Abstract

The effects of hyperglycaemia conspire to create an environment highly suited to foot ulcer development and lack of healing. Factors such as infection further impede healing. However, improved blood glucose control and coordinated care of the patient’s foot can often lead to a turnaround in this situation that has a poor prognosis for amputation and patient survival. This review of diabetic foot problems and care of the foot was written by Tim Kenealy, GP and associate professor of integrated care, University of Auckland; Roger Grech, diabetes podiatrist and Bobbie Milne, clinical nurse manager, Counties Manukau DHB; and Wesley Bevan, orthopaedic surgeon and John Kenealy, plastic surgeon, Middlemore Hospital, Counties Manukau.