Awareness and Practices Related to the Performance of Lower Extremity Wound Management Among Members of the Japanese Society for Foot Care and Podiatric Medicine: Orthoses Committee Survey, Part 2

Abstract

 Objectives: To examine the perceptions and current practices of healthcare professionals involved in lower-extremity wound care using survey data from the Japanese Society of Foot Care and Podiatric Medicine（JFCPM）.
 Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 224 physician members and 393 non-physician healthcare professionals. Data on professional involvement in wound-related tasks and perceived deficiencies in care activities were analyzed.
 Results: The physicians were mainly from the plastic surgery, dermatology, vascular surgery, and cardiology departments. Non-physician respondents included nurses, rehabilitation professionals, prosthetists/orthotists, and clinical engineers. More than half of the respondents reported involvement in wound management and preventive foot care. On the other hand, less than half were involved in offloading and rehabilitation, both of which were perceived as insufficiently meeting patient needs. Additionally, 65.6% of non-physician respondents worked in settings without JFCPM physician members.
 Conclusion: These findings suggest the need to strengthen interprofessional collaboration and integrate offloading and rehabilitation into care to support limb salvage and gait preservation. Enhanced support is necessary for professionals working in settings with limited access to foot care expertise.