Charcot foot is a rare and serious condition that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues in the feet. It may also be called Charcot arthropathy. or Charcot neuropathy.
The condition develops due to nerve damage (neuropathy), most commonly caused by diabetes. Having high blood sugar for a long time can lead to nerve damage. As a result of this damage, people with Charcot foot may not feel pain or notice injuries in their feet. A minor injury may get worse because of the lack of care. For example, a patient might continue walking on a sprained or broken bone. This can lead to repetitive stress on the bones and joints, which can eventually cause them to break or collapse.
In other cases, a small wound on the foot can become infected. Without the pain that usually alerts people to injuries, the infection can become severe and even spread to other body parts. When Charcot foot goes untreated, it can lead to amputation.
Symptoms
- Redness and warmth in the foot
- Swelling in the foot
- Changes in the shape of the foot
- Breaks in the bones of the foot, even without a significant injury
- Ulcers (sores) on the bottom of the foot
If you experience any of these symptoms, and especially if you have diabetes, it is crucial to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of Charcot foot can help prevent serious complications, such as amputation.
There is no cure for Charcot foot, but treatment can help to manage the symptoms and prevent further damage. If you see the signs of this condition, your primary care physician may refer you to a podiatrist.