Charcot arthropathy is a form of arthritis that affects patients with peripheral neuropathy. The typical symptoms are a red hot, swollen foot. It usually happens to the middle of the foot and presents with pain to the area. This is unusual for patients that typically did not have pain previously. Diabetes is often the underlying cause of peripheral neuropathy. Charcot is a progressive disorder that is characterized by three stages of the disease process: acute, coalescent, and chronic. During the acute stage, there is a red hot swollen foot that is painful. This is often confused with an acute infection or cellulitis. It is necessary that there be immobilization during this stage as if it continues to progress, the joints will begin to breakdown. If there is resorption of the bones, this will allow the middle of the foot to breakdown and the arch to collapse and even bow outward. The joints will calm down and solidify in that position and develop a “rocker bottom foot.” If this develops, it is not only difficult to cut but also at risk for ulceration. Careful inspection and routine diabetic foot care is essential for prevention of this condition.
By Dr. Alison DeWaters
Tags: Diabetes, Diabetic, foot injury, foot pain, red hot foot, swollen foot
great post… got any sources for this post?
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