| DIABETES VOL. 46, SUPPLEMENT 2, SEPTEMBER 1997 The Pathogenesis of Diabetic Foot Problems An Overview Jonathan E. Shaw Foot ulceration and lower limb amputation are still common complications of diabetes. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease are the most important etiologic factors, but there is a complex interplay between these abnormalities and a number of other contributory factors, such as altered foot pressures, limited joint mobility, glycemic control, ethnic background, and cardiovascular parameters. Identification of patients at high risk of ulceration is nevertheless simple, and education of such patients can achieve a major reduction in amputation and ulceration rates. Diabetes 46 (Suppl. 2):S58S61, 1997 Copyright © 1997 American Diabetes Association Last updated: 8/97 |