What is the charcot leg?
Charcot Foot is a debilitating condition of the legs often associated with disorders of neuropathy. Charcot leg usually occurs when the bones of the foot weaken, leading to the collapse of the arch of the foot. The sole of the foot affected by this condition often occupies a convex appearance. It may be difficult and painful to walk on the leg affected by this condition. Diabetics are considered to be more likely than others to develop charcot leg, as diabetes can lead to nerve damage at the ends, often known as peripheral neuropathy. The treatment is generally the most effective when the disease is diagnosed early and usually includes a combination of rest, reinforcement, special shoes and surgery. Nerve damage in the legs can contribute to weakening of bones and joints in the leg. Bones and joints in the leg may eventually begin to collapse, causing the sole of the foot to bulge out.
recurring stress such as stress that occurs during normal walking, can often contribute to the collapse of bones and joints in the leg affected by this condition. Sudden trauma, such as dropping a heavy object on the leg, can often cause the arc to suddenly collapse. Persons suffering from nerve damage in the feet often experience a reduced ability to feel hot, cold or pain in their feet and can continue their daily activities without realizing that they suffered serious leg injuries.
symptoms of this condition usually include inflammation and unusual heat in the affected leg. Some people may be able to feel pain or discomfort in the affected leg.
Most doctors believe that the earlier charcot leg is diagnosed, making it easier to heal. The patient may have to hold the weight outside the leg for several months, because the softened bones of the charcot foot can take a long time to recover. Maintaining weight outside the leg often helps prevent deterioration. Patient may need crutches or wheelchair to do it, and can be applied to the injured legblack or orthopedic orthosis. In severe and advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged leg bones.
Often patients must wear adapted shoes and make lifestyle adjustments to prevent the charcot of the foot. The time spent on the feet may be limited to prevent too much loading of weakened bones and joints of the legs. Most doctors recommend adapted shoes for both legs, because the other leg may be equally vulnerable to damage.