This year’s topic for Diabetes Feet Day is Charcot Foot. Learn more about what it is and how to reduce your risk.
Charcot Foot can be tricky to spot because symptoms vary between people. It doesn’t always hurt, and it can look like an infection, gout or a sprain. You may have no pain at all, or you may notice a new pain, aching or discomfort.
Pronounced shaa-koh, this foot condition causes inflammation and damage to the bones, joints and soft tissues of the foot and/or ankle.
Charcot foot needs to be treated quickly, because the bones can continue to weaken and cause your foot to start changing shape if you keep walking on it.
What are the signs of Charcot foot?
- Your foot may feel hot or warmer than usual, compared to your other foot.
- Redness – the skin on and around the affected area may be red, which can be mistaken for an infection.
- Swelling – this can be mild or severe and can look similar to a sprain.
What should I do if I notice these signs?
- Don’t wait for it to get better on its own. It’s important to get it treated.
- Take the pressure off your foot by resting it and keeping it elevated.
- Stop walking on it as much as possible.
- Seek urgent medical advice.
Looking after your feet when you have diabetes
A common symptom of diabetes is damage to the nerves of your feet (this is called neuropathy.)
Neuropathy can cause a loss of feeling in your feet, so you may be less likely to notice an injury. Untreated injuries can progress to something more serious, such as a foot ulcer.
To reduce the risk of complications, it’s important to get regular foot checks when you’re living with diabetes. This should be done at least yearly as part of your annual cycle of care.
This check can be done by your GP, a podiatrist or a diabetes educator to determine your risk of diabetes-related foot disease.
You can also check your own feet daily.
Here are our top tips for caring for your feet
Wash, dry and moisturise your feet daily to avoid dry skin (avoid moisturising between the toes.)
Check for redness, swelling, cuts, discharge, splinters or blisters. Take care to look between toes, around heels and nail edges and at the soles of the feet. If you have difficulty with your vision, get someone to check for you.
Cut your toenails straight across. Don’t cut into the corners. Gently file any sharp edges. Ask for help if you can’t see well or reach your feet.
Protect your feet. Use a clean sock or stocking without rough seams, and avoid tight socks and stockings.
Wear a shoe that fits well. Read our guide for choosing shoes.
Stay cool. Keep your feet away from direct heat such as heaters, hot water bottles and electric blankets.
Get medical advice early. If you notice any changes or problems with your feet, see your GP.
Come along to a FootSMART workshop
Want to learn more about looking after your feet when you have diabetes?
FootSMART is a free workshop that helps you care for your feet and reduce your risk of diabetes-related foot problems.
Learn what to check, how to build a simple foot care routine, how to choose footwear and when to ask your health care team for help.
For people living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
Visit our Programs and Education page or call the Diabetes WA Helpline on 1300 001 880 to find a program near you.
