Diabetic foot in the era of telemedicine

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a common cause of lower extremity pathology such as ulceration, infection and amputation, causing a major socioeconomic burden. In diabetes, selfcare is an essential element of disease management and prevention of ulceration. Diabetes related complications, like neuropathy, retinopathy, limited joint mobility, or cognitive impairments impede self-care in daily life. And problems such as ulcers most often arise in between visits to the foot clinic or local health care professionals. Telemedicine tools can support self-care, and may be a missing aspect in the screening of patients who are at high risk for foot complications.