What is
Charcot foot is the term given to neurogenic arthropathy that affects the joints in the foot. Neurogenic arthropathy is a rapidly progressive degenerative arthritis that results from damaged nerves. Charcot foot affects a person’s ability to sense pain in their foot. Their muscles also lose the ability to support the foot properly. The bones most often affected in Charcot foot are the tarsals and metatarsals. People who have diabetes usually suffer from Charcot foot.
Causes
There are many causes that can lead to the development of Charcot Foot. The primary risk factors for Charcot foot are diabetes mellitus and chronic hyperglycemia, which is high level of glucose in the blood. This can trigger neuropathy, which leads to Charcot foot. It is unknown how this process exactly occurs.
Symptoms
The progression of Charcot foot can occur in a matter of weeks or months. A minor trauma, such as twisting foot can start the process and the lose feeling and a sense of foot position can result in repeated joint injuries. The dislocation of the joint can result to heat, insensitivity in foot, and instability of joints, redness and strong pulse.
Treatment
The progression of Charcot foot can occur in a matter of weeks or months. A minor trauma, such as twisting foot can start the process and the lose feeling and a sense of foot position can result in repeated joint injuries. The dislocation of the joint can result to heat, insensitivity in foot, and instability of joints, redness and strong pulse.
Prevention
Identifying Charcot Foot as soon as possible is very important. Check your feet daily, check the tops, bottoms, and between your toes. Look for any inflamed areas, cuts, peeling and breaks in the skin, rashes, and swelling. Touch your feet and make sure they are the same temperature, and that they are not cooler than the rest of your body. Gently move your finger from heel to toes to see that you have good feeling in the bottom of both feet. Be careful, as Charcot Foot can also be mistaken for arthritis. To help treat and prevent Charcot foot you should wear well-fitted shoes. You can also carefully trim your nails and keep your feet clean. You can also wear supportive footwear to reduce the amount of stress placed on your feet, which will reduce the risk of injury. It is recommended that you discuss all foot changes with your doctor as soon as they occur. Frequent foot exams by your doctor are also recommended to reduce the risk of getting Charcot Foot.