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Charcot arthropathy
Charcot arthropathy
Charcot arthropathy is a serious condition, which is more common if people lose feeling in their feet. The bones in the foot can become weak and lead to dislocations, fractures and changes in the shape of the foot or ankle. Charcot arthropathy may develop if you have diabetes and you fracture your foot or ankle. If it is not treated quickly, ulcers or other sores can develop. Symptoms of Charcot arthropathy include the foot feeling hot and painful, and looking swollen or red.
Charcot arthropathy is diagnosed and treated in hospital by the multidisciplinary foot care service. If a healthcare professional thinks you may have Charcot arthropathy, they should refer you to the multidisciplinary foot care service within 1 working day, and you should be seen within another working day. You should rest and not put any weight at all on the foot until your appointment with the multidisciplinary foot care service. You may have an X‑ray or a type of scan called an MRI.
The treatment for Charcot arthropathy usually involves having a plaster cast fitted.