Patients with Diabetes Are at Risk of Charcot Foot

Charcot foot, also known as Charcot arthropathy, is a disease that affects the bones and soft tissue in the feet. It often affects people who have diminished sensation in their feet and ankles, which puts patients with diabetes and other circulatory disorders at particularly high risk. If you have an active foot infection, a history of drug or alcohol abuse, or a spinal cord injury, you are also at above-average risk of developing Charcot foot.

Charcot foot causes a deterioration of the bones in the foot. The bones can then fracture. With continued use, the disease progresses and the joints collapse. The foot eventually changes shape and can develop a rocker-bottom appearance. Sores that refuse to heal can develop, and infection can occur. Charcot foot is a serious condition that can lead to long-term damage including deformity and disability. Severe cases can end in hospitalization and amputation. It is important that patients living with diabetes be aware of the symptoms of Charcot foot so that they can seek immediate care if signs or symptoms appear.

When Charcot foot begins, your foot will be:

• Reddish
• Feel warm to the touch
• Swollen

Of course, these are the same symptoms that appear with many other conditions. You can’t diagnose Charcot foot – or rule it out – yourself. If you notice these symptoms, you should be seen by a podiatrist as soon as possible, especially if you are in a high-risk group. Your foot doctor will examine and perform tests on your feet, ankles, and lower legs, and then arrive at a proper diagnosis. If she or he determines that you have, in fact, developed Charcot foot, treatment will take some time and will probably include a cast. Once the cast comes off, you’ll need special new shoes, likely with custom orthotics for support and comfort.

If you are concerned about Charcot foot or any other podiatric issues, click here or call Advanced Feet and Ankle Care at (732) 679-4330 to schedule a convenient appointment with Dr. Jason Grossman in our modern, comfortable offices in Old Bridge and Sayreville. Dr. Grossman brings decades of specialized training and experience to patient care. He has helped many patients with Charcot foot and he can help you, too.