Charcot foot (diabetic nerve-damaged joint)

Overview

Often mistaken for infection or a sprain.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Warm, swollen foot with diabetes
• Foot pain

Less common

• Foot shape change

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerve damage.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diabetes

Possible complications

• Diabetic foot ulcer: From pressure on a deformed foot
• Amputation: In severe cases

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• X-ray:
• MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Don't walk on it until checked
• Stay off the foot
• Check feet daily

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Control blood sugar

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a podiatrist (foot doctor).

Living with it

• Check your blood sugar as your care team advises.
• Check your feet every day for cuts or sores.
• Wear a medical ID and carry a fast sugar, like glucose tabs.
• Get a yearly eye exam and kidney test.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Diabetes Association: Help line 1-800-342-2383, education, and local programs.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People with diabetes and nerve damage: Highest risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Early casting prevents deformity.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Charcot foot (diabetic nerve-damaged joint)