Diabetic Foot Condition: Charcot Foot

When it comes to managing diabetes, eating and exercise is of the upmost importance, as well as routine visits with your podiatrist.  This is an especially critical rule of thumb if you want to avoid serious foot health complications in the future, explains Greensboro podiatrist Dr. Regal, a podiatrist at Triad Foot Center. One common diabetic foot condition is Charcot foot.

Many diabetics suffer from a common ailment called peripheral neuropathy, which is a type of nerve damage that causes symptoms like tingling and numbness in the foot. When your foot is numb and you can’t feel pain, and as a result continue to walk on your feet, a condition called Charcot foot can occur.

“Charcot foot happens when the bones in the foot are weakened and are in danger of breaking. What happens is the nerve damage a patient may already have masks any pain they may otherwise experience. So patients will continue to walk and do daily tasks which eventually cause fractures and joint collapse,” explains Dr. Regal.  “If left untreated, the foot can become misshaped and in worst case scenarios lead to amputation.”

Prevention is the key for overall good health. Make sure to include the following in your daily routine:

1. Maintain low blood sugar levels.
2. Check both feet thoroughly everyday. If you notice any changes see your podiatrist immediately.
3. Don’t miss your podiatry appointments. They are important not only for your feet but your overall health.

When it comes to treatment of Charcot foot, most options are non-surgical if the condition is caught in time. Treatments include:

1. 1. Immobilizing the affected foot to protect the weak bones from breaking.
   2. Not applying pressure for a certain period of time as determined by your podiatrist.
   3. Using custom orthotics to support your feet in the right places and help to reduce injury and discomfort.

Foot surgery is preformed in cases where the deformity is severe.

If you are suffering from similar symptoms or need to schedule an appointment, contact the experts at the Triad Foot Center at one of their three locations in Greensboro, Burlington, and Asheboro, or click here to request an appointment online.

 

 

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