Charcot Foot - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which doctors treat Charcot foot?

Charcot foot is usually treated by an orthopedist or a podiatrist (foot specialist).

2. What is the outcome of treatment in a patient with Charcot foot?

A patient with Charcot foot usually recovers completely if the condition has been diagnosed early. In other cases, the patient may have deformities and require custom made shoes to prevent recurrent ulceration.

3. Which bones affected by Charcot foot heal the fastest?

Bones of the forefoot usually heal the fastest as compared to the ankle, midfoot or hindfoot.

4. Why are all deformities of Charcot foot not treated with surgery?

Patients with Charcot foot are usually patients with long-standing diabetes. Surgery is associated with prolonged healing times as well as complications in these patients. Hence, surgery should be avoided as far as possible.

5. What are the newer treatments being tried out for Charcot foot?

Some of the newer treatments being tried out in patients with Charcot foot are bisphosphonates, low-intensity ultrasound and the use of electrical stimulation and magnetic field therapy. However, more studies are necessary before these can be recommended as routine treatments for Charcot foot.