At a glance
- What it is
- Prevention and wound management to keep skin healthy.
- DVA funding
- Covered for Gold Card holders with a D904 referral from their GP. Nothing to pay.
- Where
- Home visits across Sydney, the Illawarra and the Central Coast
- To book
- Call 0493 367 109, or send a message below
Who is at risk of foot ulcers
- People with diabetes, especially with reduced feeling in their feet
- People with poor circulation (peripheral arterial disease)
- Anyone who has had a foot ulcer or amputation before
- People with bunions, clawed toes or other changes that create pressure points
- People who spend most of the day sitting or in bed
Preventing ulcers
Most foot ulcers start with pressure, friction or a small injury that isn't noticed. We reduce that risk by managing corns and callus before they break down, checking footwear for pressure points, using padding to take pressure off vulnerable areas, and showing you or your carer what to look out for.
Wound management
If you already have a wound, we can assess it, clean and dress it, and reduce pressure on the area so it has the best chance to heal. We work alongside your GP and any community nurses involved in your care, and we'll refer you on promptly if you need specialist treatment.
What helps a wound heal
- Taking pressure off the area. Padding, footwear changes or a protective boot stop the wound being pressed on with every step
- The right dressing. Keeping the wound clean and at the right moisture level, changed as often as it needs
- Treating infection early. We watch for signs of infection and contact your GP if antibiotics may be needed
- Good blood sugar control if you have diabetes
- Good circulation and nutrition, which both affect how quickly skin repairs
What you can do at home
- Keep the dressing clean, dry and in place between visits
- Follow any advice about footwear or resting the foot, even when it feels better
- Don't walk barefoot
- Check your feet every day, or ask someone to check them for you
- Keep your appointments, because regular checks catch problems early
Seek urgent care if a foot wound becomes red, hot, swollen or smelly, if the skin turns black or blue, or if you feel unwell with a fever. Contact your GP the same day or go to your nearest emergency department.
Funding
Ulcer prevention and wound management are covered for DVA Gold Card holders with a D904 referral. See how DVA podiatry works.