There are many things in life that have a cause-and-effect relationship. We know that smoking cigarettes can cause lung cancer. Leading a sedentary lifestyle, especially when coupled with poor diet, can lead to obesity. In a similar manner, nerve damage can lead to a severe foot deformity known as Charcot foot.

Discussions about this condition need to start with a look at another condition known as neuropathy. This is simply defined as nerve damage, which often leads to either faulty information being sent to the brain—feelings of burning or tingling that shouldn’t exist—or worse, no communication at all.

The lack of communication between your peripheral (legs, arms) and central (brain, spine) nervous systems contributes to the deformity known as Charcot foot. When damage occurs to the weight-bearing joints in your feet, you nerves may not sense it properly. If you cannot feel the pain of an injury, you may continue to perform normal activities, causing even more deterioration in the foot structure.

Given that foot joints face so much pressure on a consistent basis, it becomes a big deal when one is injured and doesn’t have the opportunity to heal properly. Because of the relationship between diabetes and neuropathy, Charcot foot is frequently seen in those who are diabetic. In order to reduce your risk of developing this foot structure damage, make sure to conduct a daily foot inspection. This will help alert you to any underlying damage that could be made worse by continued force and pressure, creating a cycle that completely bypasses any healing.

No matter the cause behind nerve problems that could potentially result in the collapse or your foot arch, we are here to help. Foot Specialists of Long Island is dedicated to the health and wellness of all of our patients, so you know we will do whatever it takes to either prevent or treat the condition for you. Contact us today and we can help you develop a diabetic foot care plan that keeps you safe or get you started with treatment for an existing issue. Call (516) 804-9038 or use our online form to request your appointment.

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