Diabetics are prone to foot ulcers due to a loss of sensation in the feet. Once an ulcer occurs it can be difficult to treat, and in the long run often results in amputation. But if diabetics pay careful attention to their foot health, ulcers and amputations can be avoided.

An action plan to prevent diabetic foot ulcers has been developed by Roche Diagnostics in Indiana, which insists that diabetics with any of the risk factors for ulcers be committed to actively looking after and protecting their feet each day.

Risk factors include:

¦ Loss of feeling in your feet

¦ Pain in legs while walking

¦ Changes in the shape of your feet

¦ Previous foot ulcers

¦ Some important behaviours to do every day include:

¦ Examine your feet for sores, cuts, bruises and injury – use a mirror to see areas you otherwise would not be able to

¦ Protect your feet by wearing appropriate shoes – less feeling in the foot is the most common cause of injury

¦ Before putting on your shoes check the inside with your hand for rough spots or loose objects which don't belong there.