How Peripheral Neuropathy Could Lead to Charcot Foot

Is the bottom of your foot beginning to resemble a rocker? It may be a sign of Charcot foot- a severe foot deformity in which the middle bones of the foot collapse inward. If you are a diabetic, this is a condition that requires medical attention, for reasons we at PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center will outline in this article.

What is Charcot Foot?

Charcot foot is a serious foot condition that progressively deteriorates the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot and ankle. This leads to fractures and dislocations that occur with minimal or no noticeable trauma, often because the person has reduced sensation in their foot due to neuropathy. These repetitive microtraumas, or small injuries sustained even while walking, amount over time.

As the foot continues to bear weight, the bones crumble, and the joints collapse, thus causing the foot’s shape to change significantly.

Diabetes and Charcot Foot

Diabetes is a major risk factor for Charcot foot. Usually, diabetes-induced peripheral neuropathy precedes Charcot foot, as the nerve damage and loss of sensation result in sprains or fractures that go unnoticed. Additionally, changes in blood flow regulation in the foot may contribute to bone weakening.

The body's inflammatory response also may become dysregulated, which could lead to excessive bone breakdown. As a whole, these complications create a dangerous environment in which Charcot foot can develop.

Symptoms of Charcot Foot

Early symptoms of Charcot foot can be subtle and easily overlooked. Initial signs may include warmth and redness in the foot, swelling that often occurs without significant pain, and subtle changes in the foot's shape.

However, as the condition progresses, more noticeable symptoms develop. The arch of the foot may collapse, leading to a "rocker-bottom" deformity, and the foot can become unstable. Ulcers and sores may also develop on the foot, especially in areas of increased pressure.

Potential Complications of Charcot Foot

Charcot foot can lead to severe complications that include:

• Foot Ulcers: Deformity can create pressure points and cause non-healing ulcers.

• Infection: Ulcers and open wounds are highly susceptible to infection.

• Osteomyelitis: Infection can spread to the bone, which creates a serious condition called osteomyelitis.

• Amputation: In severe cases where infection is uncontrolled or the deformity is debilitating, amputation may be necessary.

At PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we treat a wide variety of foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are ready to serve our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.