Footnotes / Blog
Charcot is a condition in the feet where the bones become very weak and brittle, leading to breaking of the bones. It occurs in patients with neuropathy.
Causes
Neuropathy decreases sensation and the ability to feel temperature, pain or trauma.
This causes patients may continue to walk—making the injuries worse.
Symptoms
Symptoms often look like those of an infection, however Charcot is not an infectious process.
- Warmth to the touch (the affected foot feels warmer than the other)
- Redness in the foot
- Swelling in the area
- Pain or soreness
Diagnosis
The podiatrist will examine the foot and ankle and ask about events that may have occurred prior to the symptoms. X-rays and other imaging studies and tests may be ordered.
Conservative Treatment
- Immobilization (Complete Non-weightbearing)
- Custom shoes and bracing
- Activity modification
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be necessary to realign shifted bones, or remove bony prominences causing ulceration. Your foot and ankle surgeon will determine the best surgical option for you.
Preventive Care
- Keeping blood sugar levels in a healthy range.
- See a doctor if you notice changes in the shape of your feet.
- Be careful to avoid injury, such as bumping the foot or overdoing an exercise program.
- Follow the surgeon’s instructions for long-term treatment to prevent recurrences, ulcers and amputation.
The doctors at Innovative Foot and Ankle can help if you experiences the symptoms discussed in this article. We are located in Kenilworth NJ, Bayonne NJ, Montclair NJ and Little Ferry NJ.