Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Cindy Flom-Meland

Keywords

Diabetes Complications -- prevention & control

Abstract

As the number of individuals in the United States with Type II Diabetes continues to increase significantly, so too does the incidence of lower extremity secondary complications. Ulcer care and possible lower extremity amputation are very expensive to patients and the healthcare system and can be extremely debilitating. Preventative measures have been implemented; however, a greater focus in this area may provide significantly greater results. Previous research states that preventative programs for lower extremity complications are cost effective if they can provide a 25% decrease in these conditions. In this project, a comprehensive prevention program has been designed to increase physical therapy involvement in this process. Included in this program is a diabetes diagnosis foot screening and an individualized treatment plan which utilizes patient education, footwear, orthotics, and exercise components.

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