Preventing diabetes-related foot ulcers through early detection of peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease and diabetes-related foot ulcers are the most important risk factors for future amputation. Up to 50% of people with diabetes have distal symmetrical polyneuropathy as a complication of diabetes. Distal symmetrical polyneuropathy results in loss of protective sensation in the feet, increasing the risk of diabetes-related foot ulceration.

The aim of this article is to provide structured guidance for detecting diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy, appropriate referral based on risk assessment and prevention of diabetes‑related foot ulceration.

As a result of the often-asymptomatic nature of diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy, general practice is an ideal location for screening all adults with diabetes for loss of protective sensation. Loss of protective sensation in a person with diabetes indicates an at-risk foot. Increased frequency of foot examination, education in self-care, appropriate footwear and referral to podiatry for non‑ulcerative foot problems can reduce the development of diabetes-related foot ulcers.