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.
2 comments:
Charcot Marie Tooth disease is a neuromuscular disease that not only causes foot problems, but hands, the phrenic nerve, sometimes the heart and pudential nerve can all be affected. Some people have a hand tremor. Physical therapy and eating a heart heathly diet can help, along with moderate exercise. CMTUS has tons of information about the nature of CMT. I'm sure they would love to put you on their contact list.
Here is a link to more information about the genetics of Charcot Marie Tooth Disease that was prepared by our genetic counselor and which has links to some useful resources for those dealing with this condition: http://www.accessdna.com/condition/Charcot_Marie_Tooth_Disease/84. There is also a phone number listed if you need to speak to a genetic counselor by phone. I hope it helps. Thanks, AccessDNA
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