Charcot joint

Neuropathic osteoarthropathy, also known as Charcot joint (often "Charcot foot"), refers to progressive degeneration of a weight bearing joint, a process marked by bony destruction, bone resorption, and eventual deformity. Onset is usually insidious. If this pathological process continues unchecked, it could result in joint deformity, ulceration and/or superinfection, loss of function, and in the worst case scenario: amputation or death. Early identification of joint changes is the best way to limit morbidity.

Basically, any condition resulting in decreased peripheral sensation, proprioception, and fine motor control:

1. Diabetes mellitus neuropathy
   (the most common in the U.S. today, resulting in destruction of foot and ankle joints), with Charcot joints in 1/600-700 diabetics. Related to long-term poor glucose control.
2. Alcoholic neuropathy
3. Cerebral palsy
4. Leprosy
5. Syphilis (tabes dorsalis), caused by the organism Treponema pallidum
6. Spinal cord injury
7. Myelomeningocele
8. Syringomyelia
9. Intra-articular steroid injections
10. Congenital insensitivity to pain