Charcot foot is a serious and often misunderstood complication of diabetes that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues in the foot. This condition can lead to severe deformity, disability, and even amputation if left untreated. At Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates, Dr. Gordon Bean and his team specialize in diagnosing and managing Charcot foot to prevent complications and preserve mobility.
What Is Charcot Foot?
Charcot foot (neuropathic arthropathy) occurs when prolonged nerve damage (neuropathy) weakens the bones in the foot, making them prone to fractures and dislocations. Because neuropathy also reduces sensation, many patients do not feel pain, allowing the damage to progress unnoticed. Without early intervention, Charcot foot can lead to severe deformities, ulcers, and infections.
Causes and Risk Factors
Charcot foot primarily affects people with diabetes, especially those with peripheral neuropathy. Other risk factors include:
✔ Uncontrolled blood sugar levels
✔ Previous foot trauma or injury
✔ Obesity
✔ Long-term diabetes (10+ years)
✔ Kidney disease or other diabetes-related complications
Symptoms of Charcot Foot
Charcot foot develops gradually, often without pain. Early warning signs include:
- Swelling – One foot appears more swollen than the other.
- Redness – Skin on the affected foot may feel warm to the touch.
- Instability – Weakness or a "rocking" sensation in the foot.
- Change in Foot Shape – As bones weaken, the foot may begin to collapse, forming a "rocker-bottom" deformity.
How Is Charcot Foot Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis is critical to prevent permanent damage. Dr. Bean uses:
✔ Physical Exam – Checking for swelling, redness, and warmth.
✔ X-Rays & MRI Scans – Identifying fractures, joint dislocations, and bone changes.
✔ Neuropathy Testing – Assessing sensation loss in the foot.
Treatment & Management of Charcot Foot
Although there is no cure for Charcot foot, early intervention can slow its progression and prevent deformities. Treatment options include:
1. Immobilization & Offloading
- A non-weight-bearing cast, boot, or brace to protect the foot and allow healing.
- Crutches or a wheelchair may be necessary during the healing process.
2. Custom Orthotics & Footwear
- Specialized shoes or custom orthotics help support the foot and prevent further injuries.
- Extra-depth shoes reduce pressure on vulnerable areas.
3. Blood Sugar Management
- Keeping blood sugar levels controlled can slow nerve damage and improve healing.
- Regular check-ups with a diabetes specialist are essential.
4. Surgical Intervention (For Severe Cases)
- If the foot is severely deformed or unstable, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and prevent ulceration.
- Procedures like bone fusion, reconstruction, or amputation (in extreme cases) may be considered.
Preventing Charcot Foot
Since Charcot foot can be difficult to detect in its early stages, prevention is key:
✔ Regular Foot Exams – Check your feet daily for swelling, redness, or changes in shape.
✔ Proper Footwear – Wear well-fitting diabetic shoes to protect your feet.
✔ Monitor Blood Sugar Levels – Keep diabetes under control to prevent nerve damage.
✔ See a Podiatrist Regularly – Early detection can prevent irreversible damage.
Get Expert Charcot Foot Care in Oklahoma
If you have diabetes and notice swelling, redness, or changes in your foot shape, don’t wait—early treatment can save your mobility! Dr. Gordon Bean and the experienced team at Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates provide expert care to diagnose, treat, and prevent Charcot foot complications.
📍 Visit Us at One of Our Convenient Locations:
📌 Moore, OK, Podiatry Office
📍 3001 S. Telephone Rd., Ste. B, Moore, OK 73160
📞 Phone: (405) 794-6691
📌 Edmond, OK, Podiatry Office
📍 600 W. 15th St., Edmond, OK 73013
📞 Phone: (405) 340-9251
📌 Midwest City, OK, Podiatry Office
📍 2801 Parklawn Drive, Ste. 201, Midwest City, OK 73110
📞 Phone: Dr. Morris - (405) 794-6691 (Mondays)
📞 Phone: Dr. Carro - (405) 340-9251 (Thursdays)
💻 Click here to request an appointment
Protect your feet and stay active—schedule a consultation today!
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