Who is at risk for diabetic foot ulceration?

Diabetic foot ulceration is the most common cause of nontraumatic, lower-extremity amputation throughout the developed world. This article reviews recent data that report on various risk factors for ulceration. Subsequently, it discusses appropriate risk stratification for both the neuropathic ulcer specifically and the diabetic foot in general, using The University of Texas Diabetic Foot and Diabetic Wound Classification Systems. We believe that knowledge and communication of the most common risk factors precipitating ulceration and subsequent amputation lead to more consistent treatment of the diabetic foot, and, ultimately, to a reduction of its prevalence.