every
day
counts
Alarm signs
Go to your doctor or podiatrist straight away if you notice anything unusual or worrying during your foot check, such as:
- An ulcer
- A scratch
- A cut
- A blister
- Feel pain
- Swelling
- Redness
In case of the presence of a wound or a blister, cut or scratch it is key to react quickly and appropriately to avoid serious complications and potential amputation.
What do you do if you notice a problem?
If you see something wrong, it’s really important to:
- Take the weight off the foot
- Contact your GP, podiatrist or nurse immediately
- Go to your nearest out-of-hours healthcare service if your GP, podiatrist or nurse aren’t available.
It’s really important to try and sort it out before it gets any worse – no matter how small the wound. A serious foot problem for some people can lead to amputation very quickly.
The important thing to remember is to keep your weight off your foot.
A key success factor to close the wound and to avoid complications such as infection and amputation is to react early. It is very important that your feet are being taken care of by a team of specialists.
What the foot specialists will do
They’ll tell you your level of risk if you don’t know already. And together, you’ll agree a personalised care plan. This may involve treatment, advice about the best footwear and how to look after your feet.
You’ll see them regularity to follow the treatment and make sure your wound is closed as soon as possible.
You’ll get these appointments along with your annual diabetes foot check. It’s best to go to all of them, even when your wound is closed. That way, you’ll get the best type of professional foot care and keep your feet healthy.
