Charcot's Foot

Charcot's foot is a complication of diabetes that almost always occurs in those with neuropathy (nerve damage). When neuropathy is present, the bones in the foot become weakened and can fracture easily, even with there being no major trauma. As the neuropathy is present, the pain is not noticed. The person continues to walk on it. This can lead to severe deformities of the foot. As this can be very disabling, early diagnosis and treatment is important.

Another way to consider it - imagine spraining your ankle and not knowing you have done this. You will continue to walk on it - imagine the damage that this would do. This is what happens in a Charcot foot.

More information on Charcot's foot at ePodiatry. There are also Podiatry Arena's threads on Charcots foot  and you can ask a question at the Foot Health Forum on Charcot's Foot.

Croydon Total Footcare can offer advice to those with Charcot's foot or Charcot's joints