Currently, there are 18.2 million people in the United States with diabetes, 60-70% of whom have a mild-to-severe form of diabetic nerve damage (which often includes impaired sensation or pain in the feet or hands.) Severe forms of diabetic nerve damage can lead to lower extremity amputations. During their lifetime, 20% of people with diabetes will experience a foot ulcer which may lead to amputation. Diabetes is the leading cause of lower extremity amputations in the United States.
Diabetic patients are prone to a number of serious foot-related conditions including: