The International Diabetes Federation reported that Singapore has the second-highest proportion of diabetics among developing nations, according to a report from the International Diabetes Federation.

1. Diabetic Foot Management
for Singaporean Patients
Physio & Sole Clinic

2. The International Diabetes Federation reported that Singapore has the second-highest proportion of
diabetics among developing nations, according to a report from the International Diabetes Federation.
One in nine suffers from the chronic condition; one in three is unaware that they have diabetes.
A common complication of diabetes is foot problem. This can develop when not enough blood reaches the
legs and feet, making it difficult for a sore or an infection to heal. Another way for foot problems to
develop is when diabetes causes nerve damage. This may lead to tingling and pain, and the patient may
eventually lose all feeling in the feet.
As such, foot care is a crucial part of managing diabetes.
Diabetic Foot Management
The National University Hospital (NUH) in Singapore suggests a two-pronged strategy in treating
diabetic foot wounds. The first strategy involves prevention of any injuries from happening. However, if
an injury does occur, the diabetic patient should receive treatment from a podiatrist.

3. Researchers from NUH suggest patient education in preventing diabetic foot ulcer. Additionally, patients
should learn about the proper shoe size to wear to achieve maximum comfort in footwear. Research
revealed improper shoe sizes can aggravate or cause wounds on the feet.
Patient education also involves the proper diet, exercise, medication and foot hygiene. Researchers agree
that both patients and their caregivers should be the target of patient education programs in preventing
diabetic foot injuries from happening or worsening.
Foot Screening
Foot screening refers to examining the feet and detecting signs of possible complications that lead to
diabetic foot injuries in the future. Patients with diabetes need to observe the following signs:
 Peripheral neuropathy or loss of protective sensation
 Peripheral arterial disease where distal pulses are not palpable
 Foot deformity or callosity
 Visual impairment
Diabetic feet fall under classifications of low, moderate or high risk. Licensed podiatrists examine a
patient’s foot to look for these signs and prescribe medication to prevent wounds from developing.

4. Sources:
https://physioandsole.com.sg/podiatry-services/
http://www.smj.org.sg/article/prevention-diabetic-foot-complications
https://www.healthxchange.sg/diabetes/complications-management/foot-care-diabetes
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/health-diary-foot-care-for-diabetics
http://www.annals.edu.sg/pdf/46VolNo11Nov2017/MemberOnly/V46N11p417.pdf