The diabetic foot assessment is a key component in the care of a patient with diabetes. The assessment includes risk factor identification in both the diabetic patient's history and physical examination, foot care education, treatment, and referrals as needed. The foot complications related to diabetes such as peripheral neuropathy, foot ulceration, and amputation can be life altering. The American Diabetes Association recommends a diabetic foot examination annually for patients with diabetes with foot care education. Diabetic foot assessment may be recommended more frequently for individuals with risk factors contributing to ulceration, peripheral arterial disease, and peripheral neuropathy. This article reviews the diabetic foot assessment that nurses in healthcare settings and other healthcare professionals should use when caring for a diabetic patient.
Deformities associated with Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN), a rare and devastating post-diabetic complication, place patients at risk for infection and amputation. In the present case, a 56-year-old male with idiopathic CN presented with complaints of progressively growing plantar soft tissue deformity. Routine hematology, biochemistry, paracentesis, and fluid analysis were conducted. The patient was treated conservatively and will continue to be monitored for progression of the condition.
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