Charcot Foot Diagnosis? Simple Tips You Can Do at Home

A Charcot foot diagnosis could accompany any athropathy or disease of the joints in the feet, but it most commonly accompanies diabetic neuropathy; loss of sensation in the nerve endings.

Regardless of the underlying disease, two main mechanisms are involved in the development and progression of the condition.

First, there is the neuropathy. Because of the lack of sensation in the nerve endings, a minor trauma, such as a fracture, goes undetected. The fractured bones may continue to rub against each other, causing further damage.

Second, there is poor vascular health. In diabetes, the blood vessels leading to the feet may become damaged to the point where they are no longer able to nourish the tiny nerve endings. That is what leads to the neuropathy.

In non-diabetes cases, there may be increased blood flow to the joints, which causes an imbalance in bone metabolism. Normally, bones are rebuilt over time, throughout a person's life, although the rebuilding can be negatively affected by many things. The increased blood flow can cause a kind of washing out of the minerals that would build up new bones. So, the bones become thinner and more fragile.

A definitive Charcot foot diagnosis can only be made after X-rays reveal bone loss and degenerative changes in the joints. But, there are some outward signs and symptoms that diabetics, in particular, should be aware. Watch for:

• Redness


• Swelling


• Pain


• Increased skin temperature-the skin around the joint feels hot

If caught early, the condition is manageable. The joints can heal, although it may take several months or even one-two years for complete healing.

If you receive a Charcot foot diagnosis, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. In order to prevent further damage to the joints, you should wear good, supportive shoes; no flats, flip-flops or sandals. You should never go barefoot.

Your shoes should have rubber soles, to prevent slipping and absorb shock. Oxfords with an extra-deep base are a good choice. There are many brands of orthopedic shoes. It is important to choose a good brand.

Your socks should be seam free, because a slight irritation can lead to an ulceration, which in a diabetic can lead to amputation. If a Charcot foot diagnosis accompanies Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, it is important to wear seamless socks and supportive shoes, at all times. Additional ankle and arch supports are also be beneficial.

In all cases, it is important to maintain a healthy weight, to reduce the stress on the joints. Regular physical activity is recommended in order to maintain strength and flexibility. Water aerobics is a perfect form of exercise for anyone with joint disease.

As a last resort, there are some surgical procedures that have been shown to improve a person's physical condition. Although complex, surgery may help prevent further bone loss and restore the natural function of the feet.

Living with a Charcot foot diagnosis may be difficult, but it is not impossible. With the right footwear and sound medical advice, surgery is avoidable in most cases.