Diabetic Foot Conditions
Charcot Foot
Charcot foot (Charcot neuroarthropathy) is a serious complication in which the bones of a numb diabetic foot weaken, fracture and collapse — often without the patient feeling significant pain. Caught early, the foot's shape can be preserved; caught late, it can deform permanently and ulcerate.
warning Symptoms & Signs
- check_circle A warm, red, swollen foot without an obvious wound
- check_circle The foot feeling hotter than the other side
- check_circle Change in foot shape — a "rocker-bottom" sole
- check_circle Instability when walking
help Causes & Risk Factors
- check_circle Advanced diabetic neuropathy
- check_circle Minor unnoticed injury triggering bone breakdown
- check_circle Continued walking on an insensate, fracturing foot
emergency When to See a Doctor
- check_circle A warm, swollen diabetic foot — treat as Charcot until proven otherwise
- check_circle Any change in the shape of the foot
- check_circle New deformity with redness
medical_services How Dr. Shah Treats It
Early Charcot is treated by immediately offloading the foot, usually with total contact casting, to let the bones consolidate. Stable but deformed feet may need reconstruction to realign the foot and prevent ulcers. Long-term protective footwear is essential.
Discuss your treatment arrow_forwardquiz Frequently Asked Questions
Effectively yes. The window to protect the foot's shape is early, so a warm, swollen diabetic foot needs same-week assessment.
No. Continuing to walk on an active Charcot foot drives the collapse. Offloading is the core of treatment.