A 55-year-old woman with a history of type 2 diabetes presents with chronic pain, redness, and swelling in her right ankle. She also reports a recent history of non-healing ulcers on her right foot. What could be the diagnosis and what are the next steps?
In a patient with long-standing diabetes presenting with chronic pain, redness, swelling, and a history of foot ulcers, Charcot foot (neuropathic osteoarthropathy) is a concern. This condition is a result of peripheral neuropathy leading to joint destruction, often triggered by a minor trauma or infection. The next steps should include obtaining an X-ray of the foot and ankle, which may reveal characteristic changes such as joint dislocation, fractures, or deformities. Management typically involves offloading the affected foot, treating any concurrent foot ulcer or infection, and maintaining good glycemic control.