Podiatrists servicing the Scottsdale, Tempe, Glendale and Phoenix, AZ areas

What is Charcot foot and ankle?

Charcot foot and ankle occur when the bones in your foot weaken due to underlying nerve damage. As the bones become weaker, you’re at greater risk for fractures. Ultimately, the condition can change the actual shape of your foot.

You may develop Charcot foot and ankle due to direct trauma to the nerves from a fall or auto accident. 

An underlying disease like diabetes can also cause nerve damage or neuropathy. As a result of neuropathy, you feel reduced or no sensations in your feet. Temperature changes and pain from abrasions or foot fractures are undetectable, often until the conditions cause advanced damage.

If left untreated, Charcot foot and ankle can cause your joint to collapse. It can also cause abnormalities in your foot shape that eventually lead to disability and even amputation.

What are the symptoms of Charcot foot and ankle?

Schedule an appointment with your provider at Arizona Foot Health right away if you detect any of the following symptoms in your foot or ankle:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Redness
• Soreness
• Warmth 

To diagnose Charcot foot and ankle, your provider may recommend imaging tests such as an MRI or X-rays. 

Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent additional complications, including debilitating foot deformities.

How are Charcot foot and ankle treated?

In the earliest stages of Charcot foot and ankle, your provider may recommend you keep your ankle immobilized in a cast or brace to allow any weak bones to heal naturally. During this time, you may be confined to a wheelchair or need to use crutches. 

Some patients may just need custom shoes or inserts to ease pain and support their fragile feet. It’s important to limit activity to prevent your condition from worsening.

If the doctor detects a noticeable deformity in your foot, they’ll recommend surgery to correct the contributing fractures and collapsed joint. Surgery can also prevent the future need to amputate. Possible surgeries include:

Exostectomy 

If a bony bump is present — with or without ulcerations — it may need to be removed.

Reconstruction

If you have chronic foot ulcers and your foot can’t be braced, your provider may recommend reconstruction. Few surgeons have the skill to take on reconstruction of Charcot feet, but your provider at Arizona Foot Health is specially trained in the procedure.

Amputation

In the most severe cases of abscesses, infection, and bone loss, removal of the foot may be the only treatment option.

Your provider also works with you to prevent further foot complications, especially if you have diabetes or existing nerve damage.

For the expert treatment of Charcot foot and ankle, call Arizona Foot Health or book an appointment online today.