Diabetic Foot Examination: A Step-by-Step Guidlines

 

Diabetic Foot Examination: A Step-by-Step Guidlines

Diabetic foot examination is a crucial aspect of diabetes management, as people with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot-related complications. Here is a step-by-step guide to conducting a thorough diabetic foot examination:

1) Introduces yourself: Introduce yourself by telling your name, your designation and what procedure you are going to do.

 

2) Take Consent From: Take permission from patient before starting the examination.

 

3)  Wash your Hand: Wash Your hand before starting the Examination

4) Exposure: Expose the both legs from foot to mid of thigh.

 

5) Inspection: Begin by visually inspecting the feet, checking for any cuts, blisters, bruises, swelling, or redness. Also, look for any signs of fungal infections, such as discoloration or thickening of the skin.

 

6) Temperature test: Check the temperatures of both foot with your hands. Poor circulation might cause one foot to feel colder than the other.

 

7)Sensitivity test:  Use a tuning fork or a monofilament to assess the sensation in the feet. Neuropathy may be present if the patient's feet no longer feel as well.

8) Pulse check: Check the pulse at the posterior tibial and dorsal pedal. A weak pulse could be a sign of impaired circulation.

9) Muscle strength test: Asking the patient to move their toes and feet up and down can allow you to assess the patient's foot and ankle muscle strength. Muscle wasting may be seen if there is weakness in the feet and ankles.

10) Range of motion test: 1)      Asking the patient to point and flex their toes will allow you to assess the patient's foot and ankle range of motion. Reduced range of motion could be a sign of joint issues.

11) Nail examination: Check the nails for any bacterial or fungal diseases, as well as any ingrown toenails.

 

12) Gait Examination: Observing how the patient's body moves while typically moving from one location to another.

13) Footwear check: Examine the patient's shoes for good fit and any wear and tear that can cause skin irritation or breakdown.

A diabetic foot exam should be performed at least once a year, or more frequently if issues are found. Serious foot issues in diabetics can be avoided with early detection and treatment.

 

Dr.Muhammad Arsalan Khan

Diabetes Specialist
MBBS, DHHM, 
MSc (Diabetes & Endocrinology) - DUHS
CCD-BMJ-AKU-RCP (London)