Charcot foot is an uncommon but potentially extremely disabling form of arthritis that can affect diabetic patients. It causes a weakening of the bones of the feet and ankles to such an extent that they can begin to spontaneously fracture. Compounding the problem is the fact that many diabetic patients suffer from neuropathy, which makes sensing pain more difficult. These patients continue to walk on broken bones causing the feet to become deformed. Charcot foot occurs in both men and women and the average age of onset is 40. In about 30% of cases, Charcot foot will develop in both feet or ankles.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The end result of Charcot foot, if left untreated, is extreme deformity of the foot which makes wearing regular shoes very difficult and greatly increases the likelihood of a diabetic patient developing ulcers or wounds which are challenging to heal. Charcot foot is most successfully treated in its early stages. That’s why at Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC, we encourage all of our patients with diabetes to have regular podiatric checkups and be diligent in caring for their feet.

Our board certified foot and ankle surgeons Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, Dr. Christine I. Tumele, and Dr. Matthew W.E. Lewin, will start by examining your feet and ankles for changes in shape, size or temperature and listening to what you have to say regarding symptoms and activities. Digital x-rays (which can be done in our Monroe or Lambertville office) or other imaging tests will most likely be utilized to initially diagnose and then monitor Charcot foot. Depending on the severity of your Charcot foot at the time of diagnosis, the foot doctor has several treatment options available:

• Rest and immobilization—if fractures have occurred, the first step is to get them healed; not moving the foot and staying off it are necessary for the bones to mend
• Braces and splints—these help keep the foot in proper position and prevent further injury
• Orthotics—custom inserts for shoes can help make walking easier and can also protect areas that have become deformed to prevent ulcers from forming
• Modification of Activities—repetitive motions that put stress on the feet need to be greatly reduced or avoided all together
• Surgery—when Charcot foot does not respond to the above non-invasive methods of treatment, surgery may be necessary to prevent wounds and increase stability

If you have any signs or symptoms of Charcot foot it is very important that you contact us immediately and schedule an appointment to get checked out.