Charcot foot can result from complete or near-complete numbness in one or both feet or ankles. This condition causes the bones in the foot to become weak, making them prone to damage such as fractures and dislocation.
Because the foot is numb, pain from fractures or other traumas can go unnoticed, leading to additional damage from walking and standing.
As the bones continue to weaken, the joints of the foot can become dislocated or collapse, changing the foot’s shape. The resulting shape is referred to as rocker-bottom foot, since the arch extends down and out, creating a rocker-like appearance.
Charcot foot can also lead to the occurrence of sores, which are hard to heal.
If left untreated, Charcot foot can lead to severe deformity, disability, or amputation.