Category: Blog

The successful treatment of Charcot foot does not end with a completed surgery; success also requires a diligent postoperative care regime. This devastating condition mainly affects patients with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, resulting in bone destruction and joint deformation¹. During the initial, inflammatory stage, the recommended treatment consists of off-loading with total contact casts or custom orthotics to prevent further damage, although surgical management is indicated in cases of severe instability or soft tissue compromise². After the acute stage, the focus of treatment is on deformity correction and foot reconstruction to prevent further damage and improve the patients’ quality of life².

Charcot arthropathy occurs in the presence of peripheral neuropathy and metabolic abnormalities. Today it is seen more commonly in patients with long-standing diabetes^1,2. Its pathogenesis, although still largely unknown, involves several pro-inflammatory pathways, which stimulate osteoclastic activity³.

There is an overwhelming wealth of scientific literature available on Charcot foot. In this article, we gather and summarize some of the most interesting sources, including Charcot neuroarthropathy of the foot and ankle reviews, diabetic foot reviews, and diabetic foot care articles.

Charcot foot is a progressive, devastating pathology defined by bone and joint changes that occur as a result of loss of sensation. Also called Charcot joint or neuropathic arthropathy, this condition is almost always associated with the vascular and neurological changes caused by poorly controlled diabetes¹.

Charcot foot, also called Charcot neuropathy, is a condition caused by a combination of peripheral neuropathy and vascular disorders that results in progressive joint damage and eventually foot instability¹. If left untreated, the consequences for patients are devastating, with reduced quality of life, inability to weight-bear, and an increased risk of amputation².

Charcot neuroarthropathy is a rare, but devastating complication of diabetes¹. Progressive destruction of the bones and joints of the foot cause deformities and thus alter foot biomechanics¹. If not recognized nor treated properly, the disease can result in ulcer formation, infection, and progression of the disease with joint instability and bone destruction^2,3. In the worst case, limb amputation is required^4,5.