Charcot Foot-What Is It and Who Does It Affect?

Diabetes affects around 16 million people in the U.S. so you are not alone if you are living with this disease. A common thread with diabetes is that it brings with it the risk of some serious complications. Nerve damage, or neuropath, poor circulation and diabetic ulcers common foot problems that people with diabetes face. The combination of these  symptoms can result in a very serious and disabling condition called Charcot foot.

Dr. Jeff Bowman, foot specialist in Houston, TX treats patients with diabetes on a regular basis. Each patient is encouraged to be visiting regularly for the sole reason that prevention is key when it comes to managing the foot problems that can develop from having diabetes.

Charcot foot is actually a form of arthritis that occurs in people who have significant nerve damage. It causes the bones in the foot to weaken, fracture and even disintegrate. The arch of the foot can collapse and fractures and bone dislocations can result in severe deformities of the foot. These deformities often result in pressure areas that become prone to developing open sores and wounds.

Due to nerve damage, it is possible that a person with diabetes may not even feel a fracture in the foot and continue to walk on it, resulting in further damage. Swelling, warmth, redness and pain could be indicators of the development of Charcot foot. 

Early diagnosis is key in successfully treating Charcot foot. We have several conservative treatment options available at our podiatric office and can walk you through surgery if your deformity has become severe. If you have neuropathy and are seeing any unusual symptoms, please contact us immediately for help. Call our office today (713) 467-8886 to make an appointment with Dr. Bowman or visit www.houstonfootspecialist.com.

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