Clinical Assessment, Risk Factors, and Classification of Diabetic Foot: An Overview

Diabetes mellitus is one of the commonest medical conditions prevalent all over the globe. This is associated with many complications due to its progressive involvement of various organ systems. The basic mechanism includes gradual onset of neuropathies, vasculopathies, retinopathies, reduced immune systems, and thus increased incidence of infections. Foot involvement is quite common in diabetics. This should be prevented and treated early with a team approach. Every effort should be made to prevent ulcer formation and further complications like deep-seated infection and gangrene. For proper understanding, the basic concepts regarding the risk factors, pathogenesis, classification, and proper assessment/examination are of paramount importance. This study outlines these aspects, which will help in prevention of dreadful complications and early treatment of the diabetic foot.