Charcot Foot (also know as Charcot Joint and Charcot Fracture) is named after a French neurologist who, in 1868, began to notice that many of his patients were experiencing bone deterioration with no associated pain. The cause in many of these early cases was syphilis (tabes dorsalis). Today however, there are approximately 24 different diseases that cause Charcot foot, the most common cause is peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation in the feet) due to diabetes mellitius.

Charcot foot is most commonly a collapse in the mid arch, but can also occur in the rearfoot and ankle. Joint and bone deconstruction can go unnoticed by the diabetic patient and therefore the bones begin to heal improperly, leaving the foot deformed. When a patient complains of symptoms such as swelling, their feet not feeling the same temperature, redness, and no longer being able to comfortably wear their shoes, an early identification of Charcot foot is ideal. Many doctors often mistake these symptoms with that of osteoarthritis. If gone undetected, there is an increased risk of foot deformities ("rocker bottom"), ulcerations, infection, and even limb loss.

Once this condition has been properly diagnosed, your podiatrist will recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. Bed rest - to give the foot ample time to heal without the stress of walking.
2. Crutches - to help take the weight off of the injured foot.
3. Total contact cast (TCC)- to help take the weight off of the injured foot.
4. Custom orthotics and footwear - to support the healing bones and protect against further damage.

1. Become educated on diabetic foot care
2. Wash and dry feet thoroughly
3. Inspect your feet daily (or have someone else do it for you)
4. Wear properly fitting shoes
5. Wear seamless socks
6. Do NOT walk around barefoot
7. Visit your podiatrist regularly