Are the bones and joints in your feet deformed without pain, or perhaps you have redness or swelling? You could have nerve damage related to what is known as Charcot’s foot. Also known as Charcot neuropathy, this condition results from nerve damage that causes significant bone destruction, often due to diabetes or other conditions, where you are unaware of broken bones in your foot.
With Charcot’s foot, the bones and joints of the foot and ankle become weakened and deformed, leading to fractures, dislocations, and other structural abnormalities. The hard part is you often do not even know you have a problem.
Stay Alert
Understanding the signs and symptoms is critical to catch the problem early. This diagnosis can lead to a frustrating, long process of healing. Those with diabetes are more susceptible than others to developing this condition, which can lead to serious complications.
Early diagnosis is the key to protecting your foot health. If you develop Charcot’s foot, treatment involves immobilizing the affected foot with a cast or brace to allow your bones to heal and prevent further damage. An X-ray, MRI, CT, or bone scan can help confirm the diagnosis. Surgery may be necessary in extreme cases of the condition.
Once the foot has healed, physical therapy, orthopedic footwear, custom orthotics, and bracing may be necessary to restore mobility, decrease flair-ups, and prevent future injury. Regular visits to your Healthmark podiatrist are a must to stay on top of your foot health, especially since you cannot feel the pain. It is also important to control any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, that may contribute to the development of Charcot’s foot.
Are you looking for a Charcot foot specialist in Philadelphia?
If you are looking for Charcot foot care in Philadelphia, PA? Contact an experienced Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associate podiatrist today.