Symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease
Symptoms of PAD may include:
- Leg pain or cramping (especially during physical activity),
- Numbness or weakness
- Coldness in the lower extremities
- Colour changes in the skin (dull and purplish skin)
- Non-healing wounds or ulcers.
Suppose you have any of the above symptoms or have a history of diabetes. In that case, you should consult a podiatrist or medical professional for further evaluation.
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Diagnosing Peripheral Arterial Disease
To diagnose PAD, we need to perform a comprehensive examination, which includes the following:
- Checking your pulses
- Inspecting your legs and feet for signs of PAD.
- Clinical diagnostic tests like the ankle-brachial index, doppler ultrasound
If PAD is suspected, your medical professional may refer you for further imaging, such as CT angiography and magnetic resonance angiography.
Treatment and Management
Risk factors for Charcot neuroarthropathy include:
- Diabetes
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Alcoholism
- Spinal cord injuries
Symptoms and Early Warning Signs
Early detection of Charcot neuroarthropathy is crucial for preventing severe complications. Some common symptoms include:
- Warmth, redness, and swelling in the foot or ankle
- Pain or discomfort (some cases are painless)
- Instability or difficulty walking
- Deformities, such as a collapsed arch or a rocker-bottom appearance
Diagnosis
Charcot foot can look identical to typical foot infections, such as cellulitis. Therefore, your medical practitioner or podiatrist will usually conduct a thorough examination and may refer you for various diagnostic scans to confirm the diagnosis, such as:
- X-rays: To identify bone deformities, fractures, or dislocations
- MRI scans: To assess soft tissue damage and the extent of the condition
- Bone scans: To differentiate Charcot’s foot from other conditions, such as infections or tumours
Treatment Options For Charcot Foot In Singapore
While there is no cure for Charcot foot, early intervention and proper management can prevent severe deformities and preserve foot function. Treatment options in Singapore may include:
- Activity modification: Limiting weight-bearing activities to reduce stress on the foot
- Immobilization: Using a cast or boot to protect the foot and allow the bones to heal
- Custom insoles: Special shoe inserts or braces to provide support and redistribute pressure
- Custom walker boot: Special boot to redistribute pressure for cases with severe deformities
- Surgery: In severe cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to correct deformities and stabilize the foot
Prevention and Management
To minimize the risk of developing Charcot neuroarthropathy or prevent further complications, consider these recommendations:
- Monitor your blood sugar levels closely if you have diabetes
- Regularly inspect your feet for signs of injury or infection
- Wear properly fitting, supportive footwear
- Schedule regular check-ups with your podiatrist, particularly if you have neuropathy or other risk factors
Seek Early Medical Attention For Charcot Neuroathropathy
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charcot foot prevalent in Singapore?
Can Charcot foot lead to amputation in Singapore?
Are there specialized clinics or hospitals in Singapore for treating Charcot foot?
Can I continue working and participating in daily activities while undergoing treatment for Charcot foot in Singapore?
How can I prevent Charcot foot if I live with diabetes in Singapore?
To reduce the risk of developing Charcot foot, individuals with diabetes in Singapore should:
- Regularly monitor and manage blood sugar levels.
- Conduct daily self-examinations of the feet for signs of injury or infection.
- Visit a podiatrist for regular foot health screening and early detection of potential issues.
- Wear properly fitting, supportive footwear and avoid walking barefoot.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, to help manage diabetes and reduce the risk of complications.
