Charcot foot is a foot condition associated with neuropathy disorders, where weakened bones lead to a collapse of the arch of the foot. Diabetics are more likely to develop this condition, and treatment involves rest, braces, special footwear, and surgery. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Charcot foot is a debilitating foot condition often associated with neuropathy disorders. Charcot’s foot typically occurs when the bones in the foot weaken, leading to a collapse of the arch of the foot. The sole of an affected foot often takes on a convex appearance. It can be difficult and painful for sufferers to walk on an affected foot. Diabetics are thought to be more likely than others to develop Charcot’s foot, as diabetes can lead to nerve damage in the extremities, often known as peripheral neuropathy. Treatment is usually most effective when the disease is caught early and usually involves a combination of rest, braces, special footwear, and surgery.
People who have neuropathy, or nerve damage, in their feet are generally more vulnerable to Charcot foot. Nerve damage in the feet can contribute to weakening of the bones and joints in the foot. The bones and joints in the foot may eventually begin to collapse, causing the sole of the foot to bulge outward.
Repetitive stress, such as that occurs during normal walking, can often contribute to the collapse of bones and joints in a foot affected by this condition. Sudden trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on the foot, can often cause the arch to collapse suddenly. People suffering from nerve damage in the feet often experience a reduced ability to feel heat, cold or pain in their feet and may continue with their daily activities without realizing that they have sustained a serious injury to their feet.
Symptoms of this condition usually include inflammation and unusual warmth in the affected foot. Some people may be able to experience pain or discomfort in the affected foot.
Most doctors believe that the earlier Charcot foot is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. The patient may need to keep weight off the foot for several months, as the softened bones of a Charcot’s foot can take a long time to heal. Keeping weight off the foot often helps prevent the condition from worsening. The patient may need crutches or a wheelchair to get around, and a cast or splint may be placed on the injured foot. In severe and advanced cases, surgery may be needed to repair damaged bones in the foot.
Patients often need to wear custom-made footwear and make lifestyle changes to prevent Charcot’s foot from recurring. You may need to limit the time spent on your feet to avoid putting excessive strain on the weakened bones and joints in your feet. Most doctors will recommend custom footwear for either foot, as the other foot may be equally vulnerable to damage.
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