When is GP consultation recommended for a diabetic foot ulcer?

Diabetes can reduce sensation, alter circulation and make healing more difficult. A foot ulcer may therefore be more serious than it looks, and pain may be limited or absent. A GP can examine the wound, skin temperature, circulation and sensation, look for infection, and coordinate wound care or specialist assessment.

Keep the wound clean and covered with a suitable dressing, avoid walking on it more than necessary, and do not cut away callus or use corn-removal products. Check both feet daily for new colour changes, blisters or breaks in the skin. Bring your diabetes medicines and recent glucose information to the appointment if available.

Seek urgent medical care for spreading redness, warmth or swelling, pus, a bad smell, fever, chills, red streaks, black or blue skin, a suddenly cold or pale foot, new severe pain, or difficulty moving the foot. Emergency help is appropriate if you feel faint, confused or severely unwell, or if infection is spreading quickly.

Ask how deep the ulcer appears, whether infection or circulation problems are present, how to dress it, and how much weight the foot can take. Discuss footwear, glucose management, off-loading, podiatry or specialist referral, and the exact changes that should trigger same-day reassessment.