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X-ray for potential Charcot

R

redshaw

New Member
Relationship to Diabetes
Type 1
I have been having a problem with my right foot for over 2 weeks now. And although it is probably due to nerve damage from sciatica, my DSN said I should have an x-ray to rule out Charcot's foot. I was referred by the GP on Friday, and nothing has shown up on my apps, so I rang the department today, who said the referral was being reviewed. I was told not to ring back til next week, by which time I will have been walking on it for 3 weeks. The DSN was talking about how it would need to be immobilised if it was that.

So how long should you wait for an x-ray appointment for this?

Thanks
Type 1 since 1983. HbA1C 6.9
 
Hello @redshaw

I’d contact your DSN & GP asap and ask for them to arrange an urgent XRay for you.

Charcot foot isn’t that common so there’s a lack of awareness about it generally but time is of the essence if Charcot foot is suspected. Early immobilisation in a cast - if it is Charcot - is vital to protect the structure of your foot from damage. Good on your DSN for being aware of it as a potential complication. Do you have a diabetic podiatry clinic/service you can also contact for advice?

Early stages of Charcot can return a clear X Ray before any bones have been damaged. A scan is more likely to show the start of any early bone destruction.

I would not wait. I was sent to A&E with a very hot swollen foot & because the initial XRay was clear I was told it was a sprain & nothing to worry about. 48hours later the bones in my foot fractured and displaced.

Please follow it up asap, it needs to be assessed and Charcot ruled in or out. Early treatment can save a whole lot of pain & trouble further down the line. Good luck.
 
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