Foot and Ankle

Please update your RDS mobile app to version 4.7.1

We are pleased to advise that deep linking capability, enabling users to directly download individual mobile toolkits, has now been released on the RDS mobile app. When you install the update, you will see that each toolkit has a small QR code icon the header area beside the search icon – see screenshot below. Clicking on this icon will open up a window with a full-size QR code and the alternative of a short URL for sharing with users. Instructions are provided.

You may need to actively install the update to install RDS app version 4.7.1 to see this improvement. Installing this update is also strongly recommended to get the full benefits of the new contingency arrangements – specifically, that if the RDS website should fail, you will still be able to download new mobile app toolkits.

To check your current RDS version, click on the three dots bottom right of the RDS app screen. This takes you to a “More” page where you will see the version number. To install latest updates:

On iPhones – go to the Apple store, click on your profile icon top right, scroll down to see the apps waiting to be updated and update the RDS app.

On Android phones – these can vary, but try going to the Google Play store, click on your profile icon top right, click on “Manage apps and device”, select and update the RDS app.

Please get in touch with ann.wales3@nhs.scot with any questions.

MSK foot and ankle red flags

The primary aim of the assessment process is to exclude any serious pathology through screening for red flags

Possible red flags that may indicate serious pathology

Past history of cancer
Unexplained weight loss >10kg body weight in 3 months
Non/mechanical and/or night pain
Intractable or increasing pain
IV drug use/HIV/osteoporosis /TB
Abnormal bladder or bowel symptoms
Violent trauma
Progressive widespread neurological signs. Unilateral or bilateral UL/LL weakness and or weakness extending over several dermatomes
Systemically unwell, infection, fever, high pulse
Severe acquired structural deformity
Gait disturbance

MSK foot and ankle red flags

Choose below for specific advice

Hindfoot problems

Midfoot problems

Forefoot problems

Ankle problems