Charcot Foot is a rare but serious condition that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot and ankle. It is most commonly seen in individuals with diabetes, but it can also occur due to other conditions that affect nerve sensation. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and how Charcot Foot develops over time is crucial for early detection and effective treatment.

In this post, we’ll explore Charcot Foot in detail, including how it develops, the risk factors, the symptoms to watch for, and why it’s important to seek treatment early.

What is Charcot Foot?

Charcot Foot, also known as Charcot Neuroarthropathy, is a progressive condition that causes the bones and joints in the foot and ankle to weaken and break down. This happens due to the loss of sensation in the affected area, usually from nerve damage caused by neuropathy, most often seen in people with diabetes.

When the nerves in the foot no longer function properly, the person may not feel pain or discomfort. As a result, minor injuries, fractures, or stress can go unnoticed. Over time, the bones and joints in the foot may collapse, leading to deformities and loss of foot structure. This can ultimately make walking and standing extremely difficult.

How Does Charcot Foot Develop?

Charcot Foot develops due to a combination of nerve damage and increased stress on the foot. Here’s a breakdown of how it happens:

1. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
   The primary cause of Charcot Foot is peripheral neuropathy, a condition that causes loss of feeling in the feet and lower legs. Neuropathy often occurs in people with diabetes due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. When the nerves in the foot are damaged, the individual loses the ability to feel pain, heat, or pressure. This means that the body’s natural defence mechanism to prevent injury is impaired, allowing unnoticed injuries to occur.

2. Increased Stress and Trauma
   Once the sensation is lost, the foot is more susceptible to stress. Even simple activities, like walking or standing for long periods, can put undue pressure on the joints and bones. Because the person cannot feel pain or discomfort, they may continue to put weight on the foot even when it’s injured, which can lead to fractures, dislocations, and severe joint damage.

3. Inflammation and Deformity
   Over time, this repeated trauma and stress can cause the foot’s bones and joints to weaken and break. The body responds with inflammation, but because the individual cannot feel pain, this inflammation can continue unchecked. As the disease progresses, the foot may become deformed due to collapsed bones, making it difficult or impossible to walk normally.

Symptoms of Charcot Foot

Charcot Foot typically progresses through different stages, and its symptoms may vary depending on how far the condition has advanced. Early detection is key to preventing further damage. The most common symptoms of Charcot Foot include:

• Swelling and Redness: One of the first signs of Charcot Foot is swelling and redness in the affected foot or ankle, often mistaken for an infection or inflammation.

• Warmth: The affected foot may feel unusually warm to the touch, which is a result of the inflammatory response.

• Pain and Tenderness: Early on, pain may be felt in the foot, although people with nerve damage may not experience it as intensely. This pain can be due to broken bones, swelling, or inflammation.

• Foot Deformities: As the condition progresses, the foot may begin to change shape, with the arch collapsing or the toes becoming misaligned. This can result in visible deformities such as a rocker-bottom foot.

• Instability: As the bones and joints break down, the foot can become unstable, making it difficult to walk or stand without assistance.

Risk Factors for Charcot Foot

While Charcot Foot is most commonly associated with diabetes, other conditions and factors can increase the risk of developing the condition, including:

• Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy: This is the most common risk factor, as neuropathy caused by long-term high blood sugar levels leads to the loss of feeling in the feet.

• Other Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as alcohol-related neuropathy, spina bifida, or stroke can also affect nerve function in the feet.

• Previous Foot Injuries: People who have had prior foot injuries, including fractures or surgeries, may be at a higher risk for developing Charcot Foot.

• Age: Charcot Foot is more commonly seen in middle-aged to elderly individuals, especially those with diabetes.

How Charcot Foot is Diagnosed

If Charcot Foot is suspected, a podiatrist or healthcare provider will perform a thorough evaluation. This may include:

• Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the foot for signs of swelling, redness, warmth, and deformity.

• X-rays or MRI: Imaging tests help to identify fractures, joint damage, or structural changes in the bones of the foot and ankle.

• Bone Scans: In some cases, a bone scan may be performed to assess the level of inflammation and detect early signs of Charcot Foot.

Treatment for Charcot Foot

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing Charcot Foot and preventing further complications. Treatment options typically include:

1. Immobilisation: In the early stages, the affected foot may need to be immobilised using a cast, splint, or brace to allow the foot to heal and prevent further injury.

2. Offloading: Special shoes or custom orthotics can help redistribute weight away from the affected area, reducing the pressure on the foot and allowing it to heal.

3. Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, surgery may be required to realign bones or remove damaged tissue to prevent further deformity and improve function.

4. Monitoring and Regular Checkups: Regular visits to a podiatrist are essential to monitor the condition and prevent further damage.

Conclusion

Charcot Foot is a serious condition that can lead to significant foot deformities and loss of function if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and risk factors is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. If you have diabetes or other risk factors, it’s important to monitor your feet regularly and seek professional care if you notice any changes in your foot health.

At Peak Podiatry, we specialise in the diagnosis and management of Charcot Foot. If you’re experiencing symptoms or are at risk, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your foot health and overall mobility.

Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward protecting your feet!