PANDEMIC DIABETIC COMPLICATIONS SUCH AS CHARCOT FOOT RISING

According to George Vito, DPM, Charcot foot is a condition that causes weakening of the bones in the foot that can occur in people who have significant nerve damage. Charcot affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot or ankle. The bones become weak and can break and the joints in the foot or ankle can dislocate. Dr. Vito has more than 30 years of experience, having “pioneered Charcot reconstruction with ring fixation,” Vito has performed more than 2,000 Charcot foot reconstructions since 1994. If not caught in its earliest stage, the joints in the foot collapse and the foot eventually becomes deformed. A deformed foot can cause pressure sores to develop in the foot or ankle. 

 

Dr. George Vito

 

An open wound with foot deformity can lead to an infection and even amputation. Dr. Vito mentioned an increase in the amputation rate for diabetics, simply because patients aren’t seeing their podiatrists regularly out of fear of exposure to COVID-19. He noted it’s extremely important to maintain regular care during the pandemic and his practice is trying to continue providing quality care for patients, as well as provide wound care if needed.

 

Source: Kori Sciandra, The Daily News (Batavia, NY) [12/20/20]

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News