Compensation for Delayed Treatment of Charcot Foot
A delay in diagnosing and treating charcot foot can leave the patient with permanent disability or, at worst, the need for the foot to be amputated. The resulting difficulties and financial impact may justify a claim for compensation.
The problem of charcot foot
Charcot foot requires a very prompt diagnosis in order to try to resolve the problem and prevent the patient from suffering permanent deformity.
Charcot foot can develop when an individual's sensation in the foot is missing or compromised. The bones and joints in the foot may unwittingly come under pressure causing a break or fracture of which the individual is unaware. They may continue to weight-bear on that foot increasing the problem and causing deformity.
The later this problem is diagnosed and treated, the less likely the patient is to recover from it and the higher the risk that they will be permanently disabled.
Unfortunately, the people most at risk of developing charcot foot, such as people suffering with diabetes, may be least likely to realise that they have a problem. People with diabetes can have reduced feeling in their feet, allowing such a problem to develop.
Diagnosing charcot foot
It is essential, therefore, that someone with diabetes keeps a very close eye on the condition of their feet and visits their GP if they have any concerns. Symptoms of charcot foot include redness, swelling, warmth and pain in the foot. A deformity may even be visible.
At this point, it is vital that the medical professionals recognise not only the symptoms of charcot foot but also the need for prompt treatment. Any delay in diagnosis or misdiagnosis may allow the patient to continue to use the foot, thereby causing a deterioration in their condition and likely long-term outcome.
Long-term disability
In the long-term, the impact of a delay in treatment of charcot foot can cause the individual to suffer significant financial losses. Their ability to continue in their chosen type of employment may be restricted, causing a loss of income.
Their mobility may be compromised and they may be at risk of falls, requiring a level of care to support them. This can be very costly.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the long-term effects of charcot foot due to a failure by medical professionals to diagnose and treatment the condition, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Contact Glynns today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor about your situation. They will be happy to advise you, free of charge, as to the wisdom of making a claim.
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