Risk factors for diabetic foot ulcers and diabetic shoe usage behavior among high-risk diabetic foot patients at Uttaradit Hospital

Abstract

Wearing diabetic footwear serves as a preventive measure against foot complications, particularly by reducing plantar pressure and preventing foot ulcers in diabetic patients.This descriptive research aimed to study the risk factors for diabetic foot ulceration, footwear usage behaviors, and problems related to the use of diabetic footwear among high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes at Uttaradit Hospital. Data were collected from medical records and interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics. A total of 49 participants were included, most of whom were male (53.1%) and aged between 50–69 years (53.1%). The majority had previously experienced foot ulcers (1–5 episodes) (79.6%) and had undergone toe or partial foot amputation (30.6%). Most participants believed that wearing diabetic footwear could help prevent foot ulcers.Those at higher risk of developing foot ulcers were characterized as male, aged 50–69 years, with HbA1c levels > 6.4%, and had diabetes for a duration 8-15 years.This study highlights the importance of promoting consistent use of diabetic footwear, especially within the home environment. It also suggests that improvements in footwear design and further exploration of behavioral and environmental factors are necessary to enhance adherence and reduce long-term complications.