How effective is GP consultation for a diabetic foot ulcer?

Diabetes can reduce sensation, so an ulcer may be deeper or more serious than it feels. A GP inspects the wound and surrounding skin, checks sensation, pulses, swelling and temperature, and asks about glucose and footwear. Care may include protection, pressure relief, infection treatment when present and referral to podiatry, wound or hospital teams.

Arrange prompt assessment rather than waiting. Keep the area clean and protected as advised, avoid walking barefoot, and do not cut hard skin or use chemical treatments without advice. Bring medicines and glucose readings. Follow dressing, footwear, off-loading and glucose-management instructions, and inspect both feet regularly.

Seek urgent care for spreading redness, warmth or swelling, pus, foul smell, fever, chills, rapidly increasing pain, black or blue skin, a cold or pale foot, exposed bone or sudden illness. Loss of sensation can hide deterioration, so lack of pain is not reassuring.

Ask how deep the ulcer appears, whether infection or poor circulation is suspected, how to keep weight off it, which dressing is suitable and which specialist should review you.