At Biodesign, we understand how diabetes can affect your daily life and mobility. Diabetes, especially when left unmanaged, can lead to serious complications like peripheral neuropathy, poor circulation, foot deformities, and even amputations. These conditions not only impact your ability to walk but can also result in prolonged healing and an increased risk of infections.

We specialize in providing custom prosthetic and orthotic solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with diabetes. Whether you’ve recently undergone an amputation or are dealing with foot deformities, we are here to guide you through every step of your recovery and mobility journey.

Charcot foot (also known as Charcot arthropathy) is a serious and often overlooked condition that affects people with diabetes, especially those with neuropathy (nerve damage). It is crucial to take this condition seriously, as untreated Charcot foot can lead to severe deformities, ulcers, and ultimately, amputation.

Charcot foot develops as a result of peripheral neuropathy, which decreases your ability to feel pain, temperature, or trauma in your foot and ankle. Because of this diminished sensation, you may continue to walk on an injured foot without realizing it—making the damage significantly worse. Additionally, research suggests that an increased blood supply to the foot during the early stages of Charcot arthropathy causes the bones to weaken. The body begins to reabsorb bone faster than it can rebuild it, leading to bone collapse. This destructive process is worsened by mechanical factors, such as a tight Achilles tendon, which can place additional stress on the midfoot and accelerate deformity.

Those who have lived with long-term neuropathy are at greater risk of developing Charcot foot. In fact, individuals with both neuropathy and a tight Achilles tendon have been shown to have an even higher tendency to develop this condition.

As the disorder progresses, the foot may take on an abnormal shape—often referred to as a rocker-bottom deformity. This change alters your weight-bearing pattern, increasing your risk for pressure ulcers, infections, and serious complications.

Charcot foot is often underdiagnosed and misunderstood, which is why many individuals with diabetes are not aware of the dangers until it’s too late. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing the deformities and complications that come with this condition. Without proper care, the risk of severe deformity and amputation increases significantly.

Charcot Foot – Foot Health Facts
foothealthfacts.org 
This page from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons explains Charcot foot, a serious condition often related to diabetes that can lead to foot and ankle deformity. The resource is useful for orthotic patients managing complex foot conditions, offering details on symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of early diagnosis.

At Biodesign, we are highly experienced in the treatment of Charcot foot through the use of the Charcot Resistant Orthotic Walker (C.R.O.W. walkers). We’ve worked closely with physicians to design a highly effective, durable, and easy-to-use brace that can make all the difference in managing Charcot foot.

What is a C.R.O.W. Walker?
The C.R.O.W. walker is a custom-made orthotic brace created from a cast of your foot and leg. Its primary purpose is to stop the deforming forces on the bones when walking, much like a cast would, thus preventing further damage and promoting healing. The C.R.O.W. walker provides the necessary protection while allowing you to remain mobile.

How the C.R.O.W. Walker Works:

• Custom Fit: Made specifically for your foot and leg, ensuring maximum comfort and support.
• Removable: It can be removed for bathing but must be worn during all weight-bearing activities—NO exceptions! This is crucial to ensure that the foot stays protected and healing progresses. Consult your prescribing physician for your specific treatment plan.
• Effective and Durable: The C.R.O.W. walker is built to be worn daily, and its design helps prevent further deformity, giving you the best chance for a full recovery and reduced risk of amputation.

Outcomes and Benefits:

• Prevention of Severe Deformity: When diagnosed early and worn properly, the C.R.O.W. walker can prevent severe foot deformity and deforming fractures, which would otherwise result in debilitating complications.
• Reduced Risk of Amputation: Early intervention with the C.R.O.W. walker leads to a better prognosis and a much lower chance of requiring an amputation.
• Improved Mobility: The brace helps support your foot’s structure, allowing you to move safely without exacerbating the damage to your foot.

• Expert Care: Our team of prosthetists and orthotists specialises in treating individuals with diabetes and Charcot foot. We understand the complexities of managing your condition while maintaining your mobility.
• Education and Empowerment: We believe in educating you about the severity of your condition, the risks involved, and how we can help prevent complications. By understanding your condition, you can make informed decisions that positively impact your health.
• Personalised Solutions: We provide custom-designed prosthetic and orthotic devices that are made specifically for your needs. Whether you’re looking to manage existing complications or prevent future issues, we’re committed to helping you live an active, independent life.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward improving your mobility and quality of life, contact us today for a consultation. Our compassionate team at Biodesign is here to help you manage your diabetes and get back on your feet safely and comfortably.