The Charcot Arthropathy or Charcot Joint was originally described in the 1860's by the neurologist, Dr. Charcot. The Charcot Joint is a degenerative process of a weight-bearing joint that can result in severe deformity. At Custom Orthotic Design Group Ltd., we commonly see the Charcot changes of the ankle and foot due to neuropathic changes caused by diabetes mellitus. Therefore, our description here will be limited to the Charcot Neuropathic Arthropathy found in people who have diabetes mellitus.
People who have had diabetes mellitus are at risk for peripheral neuropathy - the nerves in the periphery (feet, legs and hands) no longer work the same. The peripheral neuropathy results in loss of feeling, a change in the circulation, a reduction in normal sweat to moisturize the feet and a loss of nerve function to the muscles of the feet and legs. The result may be feet that have deformities, are weak with no protective sensation and are very dry and cracked with poor circulation.
The Charcot Arthropathy or Charcot Joint is described in four stages according to the Eichenholtz Classification System:
Stage
Signs/Symptoms
Possible Treatments
Stage 0 - Clinical
Redness, swelling, and increased temperature of the foot/ankle
Limit weightbearing, immobilization
Stage 1- Fragmentation
Boney fractures, possible joint dislocation, possible deformity, instability, redness, swelling, increased temperature
Total contact cast (TCC) or total contact brace (CROW), limit weightbearing
A Charcot Arthropathy is a serious medical condition and requires immediate treatment by a physician. This information is for education purposes only and not intended for use to diagnose and/or treat. If you have a red, hot, swollen foot, see your doctor.
