The diabetic foot : cavoid or not?

Abstract

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy has been found to lead to a cavoid-type foot with a high arch and prominent metatarsal heads developing in some cases. In this study, it was discovered that patients with advanced peripheral neuropathy may develop a severely pronated foot type, which may result in increased risk of shear and pressure under the hallux (Nubé et al, 2006). This emphasises the importance of biomechanical assessment in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Furthermore, this study highlights that when treating patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, clinicians must assess patients in weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing positions to aid in decision-making regarding footwear and treatment.