Charcot arthropathy of the foot and ankle: modern concepts and management review

Charcot arthropathy (Charcot neuroarthropathy, diabetic neuropathic osteoarthropathy, or neuropathic arthropathy) remains a poorly understood disease, although recent research has improved our level of knowledge regarding its etiology and treatment. The effects of Charcot arthropathy are almost exclusively seen in the foot and ankle, and the diagnosis is commonly missed upon initial presentation. It has been well established that this complication of diabetes mellitus severely reduces the overall quality of life and dramatically increases the morbidity and mortality of patients. However, there are few high-level evidence studies to support management and treatment options at this point in time. The goal of this study is to evaluate the modern concepts of Charcot arthropathy through a review of the available literature and to integrate a perspective of management from the authors' extensive experience.