Evaluation of Foot Problems Among Diabetics in Rural Population: A Prospective Study at a Tertiary Center

Sandip Kumar Rahul¹, Avinash Kumar², Om Prakash Purbey³, Rupesh Keshri⁴, Digamber Chaubey⁵, Chandrakant Maurya⁶, Pallavi Suman⁷, Sourabh Chandrabhushan Sharma⁸

Keywords: Diabetes, diabetic foot, foot deformities, rural, ulcers

DOI: 10.63475/yjm.v4i3.0252

DOI URL: https://doi.org/10.63475/yjm.v4i3.0252

Publish Date: 31-12-2025

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Pages: 588 - 595

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Downloads: 7

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Author Affiliation:

1 Additional Professor, Pediatric Surgery, AIIMS, Deoghar, India
2 Consultant Surgeon, Medanta Hospital, Patna, India
3 Assistant Professor, Pediatric Surgery, IGIMS, Patna, India
4 Assistant Professor, Pediatric Surgery, AIIMS Deoghar, India
5 Associate Professor, Pediatric Surgery, AIIMS Patna, India
6 Senior Resident, Pediatric Surgery, AIIMS Deoghar, India
7 Resident, Anesthesia and Critical Care, TMH, Jamshedpur, India
8 Resident, Pediatric Surgery, AIIMS Deoghar, India

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot, being a crippling and life-threatening condition, awareness about its pathophysiology, symptoms, deformities, and preventive measures would lessen its frequency and severity. This study aimed to obtain representative data about the foot problems of diabetes mellitus in the rural population and to propose a Podiatric Health Education Program within the hospital complex.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted on all diabetic patients with foot problems from rural backgrounds at a tertiary center from January 2009 to April 2010. Data regarding demographic details, clinical features, investigation findings, management, and follow-up were collected. Diabetic foot ulcers in admitted patients were classified according to Wagner’s grading and clinical staging systems. “Footcare and Footwear Questionnaire” was used to assess patients’ awareness. The collected data were analyzed.

Results: A total of 400 diabetics with foot problems were assessed; 50 (12.5%) had diabetic foot ulcers. The most affected age was 41 to 60 years; the mean duration of diabetes was 5.02 years. Numbness (45%) and pain (40%) in the foot were the common symptoms, while callosities (55%), great toe deformity (28%), and claw/hammer toe (18%) were the common deformities. Most ulcers (60%) were of Wagner Grade 2 and 3 types. Extensor muscle involvement (36%), medial longitudinal arch abnormalities (42%), and posterior tibial artery involvement were frequent. Neuropathic feet (76%) outnumbered neuroischemic feet (24%). Patients had poor awareness about foot care and footwear.

Conclusions: Diabetic foot frequently complicates diabetes; presentation may vary, but severe handicap due to limb loss may result if not cared for. Footwear and footcare awareness promote preventive health and help in rehabilitation.

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