Foot problems in people with diabetes are a global problem and there is no area in the world that does not report the development of foot lesions as a consequence mainly of neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease. The diabetic foot is a major medical, social and economic problem worldwide. However, the reported frequency of ulceration and amputation varies considerably. This may be due to differences in diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and the presence of qualified health professionals, as well as regionally specific social, economic and health-related factors.

The goal of these IDF Guidelines is to protect the diabetic foot from breakdown, preventing foot ulceration and lower limb amputations, by taking preventative measures early in the disease process and treating the foot in the early Risk Categories of 1, and 2 and before they become the very high Risk Category 3.

Comprehensive diabetic foot assessments and foot care, based on prevention, education and a multi-disciplinary team approach, may reduce foot complications and amputations by up to 85%. Foot assessments should include at the minimum checking for sensation and pulses and looking for foot deformities. Proper foot assessments and timely referral and management can reduce risk for ulceration and possible amputation. 

These guidelines are not only for the specialists in diabetic foot but to everyone with an interest in the management of the diabetic foot. We hope that by using the guidelines those looking after people with diabetes will be better informed and give better care to those with diabetes and will result in less ulcers and fewer amputations.

Information about the moderators

Ammar Ibrahim, MD, FACS, Chair IDF Diabetic Foot Stream, Chair SACA region 2016-2017. General Director ”Instituto Nacional de Diabetes (INDEN), Dominican Republic”. Professor at Iberoamericana University (UNIBE)

Edward Jude, Professor and Consultant Diabetologist, Tameside Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Ashton under Lyne, UK.

Katia Langton, DC, Certified Pedorthist (C) Island Pedorthic FootCare. Central Vancouver Island Foot and Ulcer Protection Clinic. Canada.

References

https://www.idf.org/our-activities/care-prevention/diabetic-foot.html