The Silent Threat: How Diabetic Foot Ulcers and the Fear of Amputation Shape Patients’ Lives: A Qualitative Exploration of Patient Experiences

OBJECTIVE: Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a common and serious complication of diabetes. This study aimed to identify the difficulties experienced by people with type 2 diabetes who previously had DFUs, and those who had undergone amputation. METHODS: A qualitative research design utilizing content analysis was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 people with type 2 diabetes who had previously experienced DFUs between 2023 and 2024. RESULTS: The interviews were recorded and subsequently transcribed. The data analysis revealed 5 themes: diabetic foot ulcers development process (ingrown nail, cracks, callus removal, foot blisters, etc.), practices in foot care (washing feet, nail clipping, etc.), amputation experience (loss of sensation, not noticing the wound, etc.), fear of amputation (death wish, fear of foot amputation, etc.), effect of diabetic foot ulcer on social life (quitting job, etc.). CONCLUSIONS: The study identified that the most significant factor contributing to the development of DFUs was inadequate foot care practices and a lack of information.