Charcot-Marie Tooth Disease causes weak muscles and atrophy in the hands, feet, legs and forearms. this peripheral nerve disorder involves a gradual deterioration of the myelin coating on motor and sensory nerves and poor transmission of nerve impulses. A person's legs and feet are typically the first to show signs of CMT. Foot and ankle weakness and fatigue may develop initially, along with weakness in the hands. Toes may curl as muscles weaken. Some patients develop a highly arched foot from weak foot muscles. The person may experience a change in gait from CMT, as muscles adapt to the atrophy. Fracures and sprains are common. Other symptoms include burning, tingling or numbness in the feet, and trouble balancing.
The first step in treating any foot problem is an accurate diagnosis. This requires a comprehensive history, physical exam and in some cases, x-rays and laboratory tests. Depend on it, though-whatever is causing your foot pain, whether it's disease or injury, a hereditary condition, or any number of ills that can plague the feet- you can count on Shenandoah Podiatry for relief.
Dedicated To Your Healthy Feet,
Dr. Jennifer Feeny
p.s. CMT is different from Charcot's foot disease, a joint disorder and common complication of diabetes.
