Footnotes / Blog

What Is Charcot Foot?

Charcot foot is a condition in which the bones of the feet become weak and brittle, leading to fractures and deformities. This condition is typically seen in patients with neuropathy (nerve damage), which impairs sensation and the ability to detect pain, temperature, or trauma.

Causes of Charcot Foot

Neuropathy is the primary cause of Charcot foot. When the nerves in the feet are damaged, individuals lose the ability to feel sensations such as pain or temperature changes. As a result, patients may unknowingly continue walking despite fractures or injuries, which can worsen the condition.

Symptoms of Charcot Foot

The symptoms of Charcot foot often resemble those of an infection, but it’s important to note that Charcot foot is not an infectious process. Common symptoms include:

• Warmth: The affected foot may feel warmer than the other foot.
• Redness: The foot may appear red and inflamed.
• Swelling: There may be significant swelling in the foot or ankle.
• Pain or soreness: Pain and discomfort are common, although some patients may not feel pain due to nerve damage.

Diagnosis of Charcot Foot

To diagnose Charcot foot, a podiatrist will conduct a thorough examination and inquire about any events or injuries that may have contributed to the symptoms. Imaging tests, such as X-rays and MRI scans, may be ordered to assess the extent of bone damage and identify any deformities.

Conservative Treatment for Charcot Foot

Non-surgical treatment options focus on relieving symptoms and preventing further damage:

• Immobilization: Complete non-weightbearing is often necessary to allow the bones to heal and prevent further stress on the affected area.
• Custom shoes and bracing: Special shoes and braces are designed to redistribute weight and provide support to the foot during recovery.
• Activity modification: Limiting physical activity and avoiding putting weight on the affected foot can help reduce stress and facilitate healing.

Surgical Treatment for Charcot Foot

In more severe cases, surgery may be required to realign shifted bones or remove bony prominences that are causing ulcers or additional damage. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the best surgical approach based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual needs.

Preventive Care for Charcot Foot

Preventive measures are crucial for managing Charcot foot and avoiding complications. These include:

• Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels: Proper management of diabetes is key in preventing neuropathy and related complications.
• Monitoring foot shape: Regularly checking for changes in the shape of the feet can help detect issues early.
• Avoiding injury: Being cautious to avoid bumping the foot or overexerting during exercise can prevent worsening of the condition.
• Following post-surgery instructions: If surgery is performed, following your surgeon’s care instructions will help prevent recurrences, ulcers, or amputation.

How Innovative Foot & Ankle Can Help

If you are experiencing symptoms of Charcot foot, it’s important to seek professional care. The doctors at Innovative Foot & Ankle are skilled in diagnosing and treating Charcot foot and can provide tailored treatment plans to manage the condition. Visit one of our offices in Kenilworth, NJ, Bayonne, NJ, Montclair, NJ, or Little Ferry, NJ for expert care and guidance.