Patients who undergo surgery to correct arthritis in the foot
are often diabetics with a type of arthritis known as Charcot
Foot. The average age of patients developing a Charcot foot is
40 years. About one-third of patients develop a Charcot foot in
both feet and/or ankles. This form of arthritis can develop
suddenly and without pain. Quite suddenly, the bones in the foot
and/or ankle can spontaneously fracture and fragment, often
causing a severe deformity. The arch of the foot often
collapses, and pressure areas develop on the bottom of the foot,
leading to open sores or ulcers. While many of these deformities
can be treated with nonsurgical care, surgery may be required.
Such instances may include: - Chronic deformity with increased
plantar pressures and risk of ulcers. - Chronic deformity with
significant instability that cannot be corrected by braces. -
Significant deformity that may include ulcers that don't heal or
respond to therapy. Surgical procedures used to treat arthritis
include: - Hindfoot and