Charcot foot Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Charcot Foot Overview Charcot foot, also known as Charcot arthropathy, is a condition affecting people with significant nerve damage (neuropathy), causing weakening of the bones in the foot. Initially, you may not notice any symptoms; however, as the condition advances, the bones become fragile enough to fracture. Continued weight-bearing can cause the foot to change shape over time. As the disorder progresses further, the joints may collapse, resulting in an abnormal shape of the foot characterised by a rocker-bottom foot deformity.It is a common condition for people with diabetes. However, other causes, including spinal cord disease or injuries, alcohol abuse, Parkinson’s disease, infection, and HIV infection, can also cause nerve damage. Symptoms SwellingWarmth (the affected foot often feels warmer than the unaffected)Changes in foot colour.Changes in foot shape. Treatment Consists of two types: nonsurgical & surgical treatment. Nonsurgical treatment comprises:ImmobilisationCustom shoes and bracingActivity modificationSuccessful treatment can be achieved by early diagnosis of Charcot foot. Doctors will examine the foot X-rays and other imaging scans. Charcot foot can be prevented by controlling blood sugar levels and undergoing regular checkups with a foot and ankle surgeon.