Physical therapy in diabetic foot ulcer treatment

Background: The incidence of dilabetic mellitus (DM) Worldwide, is estimated nearly 2 million and expected to double by year 2050.Diabetic foot ulceration is one of the most serious side effects of DM= which is secondary to peripheral neuropathy, vasculopathy and hyperglicemia caused by the disease, also would be the main reason for lower limb amputation. Persons with diabetes have 15 times higher lower extremity amputations (LEA) rate than normal person without diabetes.Despite multi medical and surgical ways in treatment of diabetic foot wound, role of rehabilitation and physical therapy remain insufficiently defined.Objective: This paper presents a review of the therapeutic effects of different types of physiotherapy interventions in treatment of diabetic foot wounds and design an effective program for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.Conclusion: Electrotherapy, such as ultrasound, laser and trans electrical stimulation can make a considerable contribution to overall management of patients with diabetic foot ulcer and increase the healing rate of wound. Also exercise therapy as other aspect of physiotherapy would be beneficial in improving muscle strength, balance problems and maintain their physical activity.

Keywords:

physical therapy , diabetic foot ulcer