What are the key indicators for referring a patient with diabetic foot ulcers to a podiatrist?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 22 August 2025Updated: 22 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Refer a patient with diabetic foot ulcers to a podiatrist if there are limb-threatening or life-threatening conditions, such as ulceration with fever, signs of sepsis, limb ischaemia, deep-seated soft tissue or bone infection, or gangrene, and refer immediately to acute services.

For all other active diabetic foot problems, refer within 1 working day to the multidisciplinary foot care service or foot protection service for triage within 1 further working day.

Referral is indicated if the ulcer is large, deep, or involves structures such as bones or joints, or if there is evidence of infection, ischaemia, or deformity that requires specialist assessment and management.

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