Management of the Neuropathic Foot

In Brief This overview of the diabetic/neuropathic pathways has been utilized as a basic teaching document in the health care field. The information provided applies to the education of patients as well as professionals with a basic understanding of the progression of complications and prevention of catastrophic events. Detailed descriptions include evaluation techniques that can be used for early neuropathy detection, footwear and modification requirements, and follow-up protocol. Chronic complications are detailed to allow health care professionals to detect and refer for proper treatment. Off-loading techniques provide optimal wound healing for wound clinical settings. (Adapted with permission from Wound Care, A Collaborative Practice Manual for Physical Therapists and Nurses, Sussman C, Barbara M. Bates-Jensen, eds. Gaithersburg, MD: Aspen Publishers; 2000).