Patient education: Preventing diabetic foot infections

Abstract

Diabetic foot infections are a common complication in people with diabetes. This article will discuss the foot-related complications that can happen in people with diabetes, as well as guidelines for good foot care. Patient education is a central component in the self management of diabetes infections in both prevention and treatment. Poor knowledge of foot care practices is an important risk factor for foot problems among di-abetics. Studies have demonstrated deficiencies in knowledge and practices regarding foot care, particularly among rural populations with diabetes. Patients should be informed about the risk factors and their complications that could lead to amputation. The mainstay therapy for intervention of diabetic lower limb complications is prevention.