Orthopedic surgeons may recommend surgery to set and stabilize a broken bone. This is usually necessary if periodic X-ray or CT images of a fracture indicate that the bone is not healing and three or more months have passed since the injury. A surgeon may also implant a piece of bone tissue, called a bone graft, to help the bone fragments grow together. Surgery can help the bone heal, relieve chronic pain, and restore function in the affected body part.

As diabetes is a prime risk factor for cardiovascular disease, controlling other risk factors which may give rise to secondary conditions, as well as the diabetes itself, is one of the facets of diabetes management. Checking cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglyceride levels may indicate hyperlipoproteinemia, Checking the blood pressure and keeping it within strict limits (using diet and antihypertensive treatment) protects against the retinal, renal and cardiovascular complications of diabetes. Regular follow-up by a podiatrist or other foot health specialists is encouraged to prevent the development of diabetic foot. Annual eye exams are suggested to monitor for progression of diabetic retinopathy.