Author： Sinacore David R.
Publisher： Informa Healthcare
ISSN： 1532-5040
Source： Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, Vol.17, Iss.1, 2001-01, pp. : 39-50
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Abstract
Neuropathic (Charcot) arthropathies of the foot or ankle can be devastating and disabling complications of diabetes mellitus. The etiogenesis of acute-onset Charcot arthropathy remains poorly understood, however the bony and joint destructions have been attributed to injury or trauma in the presence of severe sensory neuropathy. The purpose of this descriptive report is to alert rehabilitation specialists that severe sensory neuropathy need not precede the onset of acute Charcot arthropathies of the foot or ankle. The prevailing hypotheses for the development of acute Charcot arthropathies are briefly reviewed. Additionally, the characteristics of two samples of subjects with acute Charcot arthropathy of the foot or ankle referred to physical therapy for treatment are presented so rehabilitation specialists may better recognize this potentially disabling complication of diabetes mellitus. Understanding the range of clinical characteristics of patients presenting to physical therapy for treatment may allow therapists to take a more proactive role in preventing long-term complications and disability in patients at risk for complications such as foot deformity and lower extremity amputation.
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