In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

Comprehensive Foot Exam

Also called: Foot Exam

- Summary
- About the foot exam
- Before the exam
- During and after the exam
- Benefits and risks
- Alternatives and variations
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Nikheel Kolatkar, M.D.

Summary

A comprehensive foot exam is one of the easiest, most useful and least invasive tools available to people with diabetes. This test can catch foot problems early and reduce the risk of infection, ulcer, deformities and amputation.

A variety of comprehensive foot exams are available. They typically include assessment of:

  • Sensation and diabetic neuropathy
  • Circulation and peripheral arterial disease
  • Injury and deformity
  • Range of motion and strength
  • Medical history and current symptoms
  • Footwear needs
  • Need for patient education

Diabetes mellitus is a disorder in the body's ability to break down blood sugar (glucose). Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage that can affect sensation, muscle strength or both.

People with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year. The test should be performed more frequently if any risk factors are present, such as impaired sensation or history of foot ulcer.

page 1 of 7 | Next Page




Review Date: 02-08-2007
Video
Being an Empowered Patient
Patient responsibility and what we need to do to make sure we become...
TODAY: Raising diabetes awareness
Maria takes a look at people with diabetes and some of the latest...
Gastric Bypass Could Cure Type-2 Diabetes
Gastric bypass surgery not only reduces a person's weight, it may...
Diabetic Retinopathy
Why eye examinations are so important for diabetics
Diabetes
Can you manage diabetes with just diet changes?
Diabetes and Cancer
Are diabetes, choleterol and cancer all related?

Advice from Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Dr. Nancy Snyderman

Helpful tips and information on weight loss

Get answers from an expert
advertisement
advertisement

YourTotalHealth      

Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community  |  

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment  |  NeverSayDiet

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2009 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.