Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a multifaceted disease and foot ulceration is one of its most common complications. Poor foot care practices are important risk factors for foot problems among people with diabetes.

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to know the magnitude of the foot ulcer and to assess the level of foot care practice among diabetic patients in Ahmedabad city.

Materials and Methods: The community-based cross‑sectional study was conducted in 150 consecutive diabetes patients found in the field practice area of BJ Medical College, Ahmedabad. A pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Diabetic neuropathy is checked using 10 g monofilament test. Statistical analysis was done by Microsoft Excel 2012, Epi Info version 7.2 and Z-test of proportion. The P level of 70%. Age 5th standard (z = 3.08, P < 0.05) were significantly associated with good foot care practice. 11.3% (n = 17) had foot ulcer. Poor glycemic control (z = 3.099, P < 0.05) and loss of touch sensation (z = 8.004, P < 0.05) were significantly associated with the development of foot ulcer. The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy was 18% (n = 27).

Conclusion: There were poor foot care practices among diabetic patients. Majority of them were wearing improper foot wear. Poor glycemic control and loss of touch sensation were associated with the development of foot ulcer.

Key words: Diabetes; Foot Care; Foot Ulcer; Peripheral Neuropathy