Treating diabetic foot problems

Information for the public

If you have a diabetic foot problem, you will be treated either by the foot protection service or the multidisciplinary foot care service.

Many foot problems can be treated by the foot protection service. However, if the diabetic foot problem is severe or if you have other problems that are a concern, then the multidisciplinary foot care service provides the treatment, usually in the hospital.

You should be referred to hospital immediately, and the multidisciplinary foot care service should be informed, if:

You have a diabetic foot ulcer and you have a fever or any other symptoms of blood poisoning (the medical name for this is sepsis), or if there is a problem with the blood supply to your foot.
Your healthcare professional thinks you have a severe foot or bone infection, or you have gangrene (whether or not you have a diabetic foot ulcer).

Questions to ask about treating diabetic foot problems

Can you tell me more about the foot problem I have?
How can making sure my diabetes is controlled help?
What can I do to keep my diabetes under control?
Can you tell me more about the treatment? What will it involve?
What are the pros and cons of having this treatment?
How long will the treatment take to have an effect?
Are there any risks associated with this treatment?
Are there any support organisations in my local area?
Can you provide any information for my family and carers?