Diabetes Foot Exam

What percentage of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations occur in diabetics?

~60%

What is the impact of the LEAP Program on amputations?

79% reduction in amputations

What condition can uncontrolled blood sugar lead to?

Diabetic neuropathy and loss of protective sensation

Name a risk factor for diabetic foot complications.

Poor glycemic control

What is one way to decrease the risk of diabetic foot complications?

Control blood sugar

What does the LEAP Program include?

Annual Foot Screening, Patient Education, Daily Self Inspection, Footwear Selection, Management of Simple Foot Problems

What should be inspected during an annual foot exam?

Cracks, sores, blisters, calluses, toe nails

What pulses should be checked during a foot exam?

Dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial

What is the purpose of the monofilament test?

To test for loss of protective sensation

What indicates a foot at high risk during the monofilament test?

Loss of protective sensation at any one of the eight sites

What is Risk Category 0 for diabetic foot?

Diabetes, but no loss of protective sensation in feet

What is the management for Risk Category 1?

Education, daily self-inspection, proper footwear, routine follow-up every 3-6 months

What is the management for Risk Category 2?

Education, depth-inlay footwear, routine follow-up every 1-3 months

What is the management for Risk Category 3?

Education, custom footwear, routine follow-up every 1-12 weeks

What should patients do to care for their feet?

Check between toes, select proper shoes, treat dry skin, and care for nails

What is the recommended frequency for foot exams in high-risk patients?

Refer to foot specialist and conduct annual foot exams

What is the significance of foot deformities in diabetic patients?

They are a risk factor for foot complications

What is the role of patient education in diabetic foot care?

To emphasize disease control and proper foot care practices

What should be done if a patient does not feel the monofilament?

Repeat the test on the area(s) where the patient did not respond

What is a common consequence of diabetic foot complications?

Amputation

What is the purpose of the annual foot screening?

To identify and manage foot problems early