DPM Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield DPM facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Chronic venous insufficiency characteristically produces skin changes known as: → Atrophie blanche and lipodermatosclerosis around the medial malleolus
2. Which osteotomy is indicated to correct isolated hallux valgus interphalangeus (HVI) deformity? → Akin osteotomy (medial closing wedge proximal phalangeal osteotomy)
3. Which pathogen is most commonly associated with plantar warts? → Human papillomavirus
4. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Orthotic Device Prescription? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
5. Which systemic antifungal used for severe nail or skin fungal infections inhibits lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase (CYP51) in fungi? → Itraconazole
6. Which local anesthetic has the longest duration of action? → Bupivacaine
7. What is 'turf toe' in athletic injuries? → Hyperextension sprain of the first metatarsophalangeal joint
8. In Dermatological Conditions of the Foot, what is the FIRST step a DPM professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
9. What is the most common benign soft tissue tumor found in the foot? → Lipoma
10. A diabetic patient requires local anesthesia for a minor foot procedure. Which local anesthetic has the LONGEST duration of action? → Bupivacaine
11. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Dermatological Conditions of the Foot for DPM professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
12. Peroneal tendon subluxation is typically caused by injury to which structure? → Superior peroneal retinaculum
13. Which wound closure technique is recommended for a diabetic foot amputation site with marginal tissue perfusion? → Staged closure: initial open packing followed by delayed primary closure or STSG
14. What is the preferred initial management for a first-time mild lateral ankle sprain? → PRICE protocol and early functional rehabilitation
15. What is the functional significance of the angle of gait (toe-out angle) averaging approximately 7 degrees? → It aligns the foot with the line of progression to optimize lever arm efficiency
16. Which bisphosphonate is used in Charcot neuroarthropathy to inhibit osteoclast activity and potentially slow bone destruction? → Zoledronic acid
17. Metatarsus adductus is best described as: → Medial deviation of the forefoot relative to the hindfoot
18. The sinus tarsi is a canal between which two bones? → Talus and calcaneus
19. An ABI value greater than 1.3 in a diabetic patient suggests: → Non-compressible calcified vessels giving falsely elevated readings
20. The most common cause of in-toeing gait in children aged 3–10 years is: → Femoral anteversion
21. Which suture material is most appropriate for Achilles tendon repair due to its strength and low reactivity? → High-tensile nonabsorbable braided suture (e.g., FiberWire or Ethibond)
22. Which phase of gait is most associated with maximum ankle dorsiflexion? → Midstance
23. In peripheral arterial disease, which lifestyle modification has the strongest evidence for improving walking distance? → Supervised aerobic exercise therapy
24. Which condition is characterized by pain at the posterior insertion of the Achilles tendon with a palpable bump at the heel? → Haglund's deformity
25. Which imaging modality is best for evaluating a suspected stress fracture not visible on plain radiograph? → MRI
26. During propulsion, the foot must supinate for rigid lever function. Which joint motion primarily achieves this resupination? → Subtalar joint inversion/supination
27. In Foot & Ankle Anatomy, what is the FIRST step a DPM professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
28. In a first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) cheilectomy for hallux rigidus, approximately what percentage of the dorsal metatarsal head is resected? → 25–30%
29. Which prostaglandin analogue is used topically to treat onychomycosis via a different mechanism than azoles or allylamines? → Ciclopirox
30. Which of the following is a hallmark microscopic finding in gouty arthritis affecting the toe joints? → Monosodium urate crystals