People suffering from diabetes not only have to worry about their blood sugar and insulin levels, but also need to remember to take extra special care of their feet. That’s because diabetics can develop a serious complication known as diabetic neuropathy, which can lead to such symptoms as numbness, tingling or pain in the feet.

One offshoot of diabetic neuropathy is so serious it goes by another name: Charcot foot.

What is Charcot Foot?

Characterized by swelling, redness, pain and hot feet, the degenerative condition Charcot foot causes the joints of the foot arch to collapse due to impaired sensation to pain. Even a very minor mishap or injury can cause harm when you’re suffering from Charcot foot. When these minor episodes go untreated, small fractures around the joint pass unrecognized, eventually leading to active bone resorption, or the washing out of mineral from the bone. Bone resorption compromises the area and produces larger fractures and joint damage.

Charcot Foot: Don’t Self-Diagnosis

People with Charcot foot often mistakenly assume they have osteoarthritis (degenerative arthritis), so be sure to visit your doctor if you notice any of the symptoms described above.

Charcot Foot: Prevention Is Key

In most cases of Charcot foot, only minor trauma causes the foot arch to collapse, so in order to prevent this possible outcome, it’s important to spend time examining your feet and wearing shoes that offer both comfort and support. The Podiatry Institute recommends that people with Charcot foot or diabetes wear good, supportive shoes – like those from Drew or Advance – with a soft insole of micro cellular rubber to absorb shock. Extra depth oxfords are also a good choice for people suffering from Charcot foot.

Here are some other tips for preventing Charcot foot:

In order to prevent the development of Charcot foot, do not walk around barefoot.
In order to prevent the development of Charcot foot, wear seam-free socks that won’t irritate sensitive or diabetic feet.
In order to prevent the development of Charcot foot, check your feet often for early signs of Charcot foot to prevent further bone destruction. You may want to try using a good foot inspection mirror on a daily basis.

Information on foot, leg and lower body health conditions like Charcot foot provided by The Podiatry Institute, dedicated to advancing the standard of care in podiatric medicine and its effects on musculoskeletal health.