A diabetic Charcot foot is a severe form of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. While peripheral neuropathy most commonly only effects sensation, causing numbness or pain, the Charcot foot occurs when the motor nerves are involved and results in the breakdown of joints in the midfoot.
When a Charcot foot occurs, it creates many problems. First of all, it is common to have a diabetic foot ulcer form beneath the collapsed arch. The ulcer forms because of the increased pressure beneath the bones in the arch. In order to prevent a diabetic foot ulcer from forming or returning, an ankle-foot orthotic (AFO) may be needed to provide support and redistribute the pressure beneath the foot.
Because of the foot deformity involved with Charcot, it is often impossible to fit the foot into a regular shoe. In these cases a extra-depth diabetic shoe is needed. In some cases, a shoe must be custom made for you.
At Tanglewood Foot Specialists in Houston, TX, Dr. Andrew Schneider provides a comprehensive evaluation for your diabetic foot and to make sure a Charcot condition does not cause you trouble. We will get you in the footwear and support needed to ensure your feet last a lifetime.
