Dialysis Treatment is an Independent Risk Factor for Foot Morbidity

Aim: To determine the prevalence of foot morbidity among patients with ESRD on dialysis. Methods: A prospective, non-experimental, quantitative time series design was employed. Forty-seven participants were recruited in the study. Medical records were reviewed followed by non-invasive foot assessments which included: Neurological, Arterial, Biomechanical, and Dermatological Assessment. Participants were assessed twice during the study. Results: Foot morbidity was found to be high among participants with ESRD on dialysis. 95.74% of participants presented with foot deformities, 76.60% had skin and nail conditions. 15% of participants had a history of ulceration and amputation. Moreover, active ulceration and history of revascularisation were also observed. Findings demonstrated overall poor foot health and footcare behavior within this population with 40.43% of participants having inappropriate footwear. The majority of participants did not check feet regularly, did not attend to podiatry appointments, and were unable to reach their feet for self-care. The Toe Brachial Pressure Index (TBPI), Spectral Doppler Waveform Analysis, and the Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) were re-measured at each visit. Monophasic continuous doppler waveforms increased while triphasic waveforms decreased during the study period. Protective sensation did not decrease during the study period. The mean TBPI decreased during the study period. The relationship between the TBPI and duration of dialysis was found to be significant. Both DM and dialysis duration were identified as significant predictors of reduction in TBPI. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of foot morbidity among patients with ESRD on dialysis. This study highlighted the importance of expanding practice by introducing a podiatry service within the renal unit to provide foot screening, foot assessments, and foot care education, with the aim to reduce severe foot complications.