What does the evidence show about what works for foot ulcer prevention in patients with diabetes?
Home foot temperature monitoring can be effective in preventing ulcers, according to Dr. Bevilacqua. He notes a study by Armstrong, et al., in which the dermal thermometry group underwent monitoring with an infrared thermometer that measured temperatures on the sole of their foot. Temperatures of >4º F were considered to be “at-risk” and Dr. Bevilacqua says researchers found subjects were one-third as likely to ulcerate in the dermal thermometry group in comparison to the standard therapy group.15 Furthermore, Dr. Karlock cites Lavery’s 15-month multicenter study, in which patients had standard footcare, education and footwear were 4.37 times more likely to develop foot ulcers in comparison to those who underwent skin temperature monitoring.16 The panelists also emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach in preventing ulcers.2 Dr. Habershaw cites the efficacy of routine, regular follow-up visits and care at a “team-oriented” diabetes care center. He says this team wo
