The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is growing at epidemic proportions in the United States and worldwide (1). Most alarming is the steady increase in type 2 diabetes, especially among young and obese persons. An estimated 7% of Americans are afflicted with diabetes, and with the longevity of this population increasing, the prevalence of diabetesrelated complications will continue to rise. Foot disorders are a major source of morbidity and a leading cause of hospitalization for persons with diabetes. Ulceration, infection, gangrene, and amputation are significant complications of the disease, estimated to cost billions of dollars each year.
