Charcot Foot
Expert diagnosis and treatment in DeSoto, TX | Serving Dallas County
What is Charcot Foot?
Charcot foot is a serious complication of diabetes and peripheral neuropathy where the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot or ankle are damaged. It begins with inflammation and can progress to dislocation and fractures that go unnoticed due to lack of sensation, leading to severe deformity.
Causes
Several factors can contribute to the development of charcot foot:
- Severe peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetes
- Trauma or injury going unnoticed
- Continued walking on injured foot
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of charcot foot include:
- Swelling, redness, and warmth in the foot
- Foot feels warmer than the other foot
- Progressive foot deformity
- Rocker-bottom foot appearance
- Instability
- Little or no pain despite severity
Diagnosis
Our podiatrists use several methods to accurately diagnose charcot foot:
- Physical examination
- X-rays to detect fractures and deformity
- MRI to assess soft tissue and bone
- Temperature comparison between feet
Treatment Options
At Infinity Foot & Ankle in DeSoto, TX, we offer comprehensive treatment options for charcot foot:
- Immediate immobilization and non-weight-bearing
- Total contact casting
- Long-term bracing
- Custom diabetic footwear
- Surgical reconstruction in some cases
- Lifelong monitoring
When to See a Podiatrist
This is a medical emergency for diabetic patients. Seek immediate care if you notice sudden swelling, redness, or warmth in your foot, even without pain.