Charcot Foot is a serious condition. It can lead to deformity, disability and amputation. The earlier Charcot Foot is diagnosed and treated the better outcomes a patient will experience. When Charcot Foot is diagnosed it is done so in one of three stages, acute, sub-acute and chronic.
Charcot Foot Acute Stage
When in an “acute stage” a patient will likely experience significant swelling, the foot will be warm to the touch and will likely be red. Frequently, misdiagnosis occurs during the acute stage as the symptoms are mistaken for signs of infection. During the acute stage, significant damage can be done to the bone structure of the foot. If x-rays are done during this stage they will likely show fractures and dislocations.
During the acute stage of Charcot Foot patients are most likely placed in a boot or cast to immobilize the foot. They are also encouraged to remain non-weight bearing until the acute stage has passed.
Charcot Foot Sub-Acute Stage
The second stage, known as the “sub-Acute stage”, is characterized by healing. Patients will begin to see a decrease in swelling, redness will subside and the temperature of the foot will begin to return to normal. During this period the bones can still be damaged so it is important to remain non-weight bearing.
Charcot Foot Chronic Stage
Stage three is known as the cool phase or the “chronic stage”. During this period the foot should have minimal swelling, no redness and be of normal temperature. X-rays performed during this stage will show consolidation of the bone. During this stage, patients are considered stable. The foot is not worsening in condition but will not improve. It is important to remember each stage can occur more than once and can occur at varying times in either foot.
Always talk with your physician if you have concerns about what Charcot Foot stage you are in. Only a doctor can make an official diagnosis.