Charcot Foot: What you need to know about neuroarthropathy

For diabetics with neuropathy in their feet, a Charcot foot is an every present danger. The nerve damage to the feet impairs an individual's ability to sense pain in the foot and the muscles in the foot fail to support the foot and the bones soften. This combination leads to sprains and stress fractures that go unnoticed and untreated. Continued walking and weight on the foot collapses the arch and the foot develops a rocker-bottom look.

Individuals at risk for Charcot's feet need to be aware of the potential and watch for signs that a foot injury has occurred. Treating problems early can prevent a Charcot foot from forming. Treatment is particularly important as Charcot's feet can lead to amputation of the foot. Some signs to watch for:

• Swelling in the foot
• Warmth to the foot that is greater than that of the opposite foot.
• Redness to the foot for no known reason
• Pain or soreness in the foot. Individuals with less severe cases of neuropathy may feel a deep ache in the foot, but is less than the injury would cause for a person unaffected by nerve damage.

Any of these symptoms warrants a visit to a medical professional for someone with nerve damage. Continuing to walk on the foot and not having the symptoms checked out will lead to further damage and potentially Charcot's feet. At the doctor's office, X-rays will be taken and the doctor will examine the foot and ankle. Treatment for a Charcot foot may include

• Immobilizing the foot with a cast or removable boot. Generally, patients will be advised to keep weight off the effected foot to allow it to heal.
• Special shoes and braces may be needed after the bones are healed to protect the foot from further injury.
• Modification of activity may be required to prevent more damage and to prevent Charcot's foot from developing in the other foot.
• Surgery may be called for in some circumstances.

Preventing Charcot's feet from occurring is the best way to approach this health problem. Individuals at risk should get regular check-ups at their doctor's, perform regular examinations of their feet for injury or signs of Charcot's foot, and keep blood sugar under control as this will help prevent or slow down nerve damage.

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