Problems related to functioning and quality of life of patients with diabetic foot ulcers

Nowadays, diabetes constitutes a significant medical, social and economic problem. According to the World Health Organization in 2025 the incidence of this disease will double in both developed and developing countries. Incidence of diabetes in Poland is 2-5% depending on the region. This disease leads to numerous restrictions in patient functioning. The need for continuous therapy and medical supervision as well as various complications exert a negative influence on the quality of life (QOL) in this group of patients. One of those complications - the diabetic foot - is a particularly important problem. In many cases it leads to foot ulceration and, in consequence, amputation. These unfavorable aftermaths of diabetes not only cause limitations in physical functioning, but also negatively influence patients' psychosocial functioning and require multidisciplinary support from a therapeutic care team.