Foot Problems in CMT

Charcot Marie Tooth Association・2 minutes read

The webinar discusses common foot issues in people with CMT and emphasizes DIY solutions, specialized care by podiatrists, and the importance of proper footwear. It also covers a wide range of treatments, including orthotics, support hose, grooming tips, fungal infection remedies, and various ways to manage foot pain in CMT patients.

Insights

Consult licensed healthcare professionals for severe foot issues, infections, and non-healing sores, as surgical topics are excluded from the webinar focused on DIY solutions and foot care products.
Specialized podiatrists trained in orthopedic surgeries and biomechanical control can offer tailored care for CMT patients, emphasizing the importance of proper footwear, custom orthotics, and devices like AFOs for stability and support.

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Recent questions

What are some common foot issues in CMT?
Gait abnormalities, over-the-counter solutions, shoe recommendations.
What specialized care can podiatrists provide for CMT foot problems?
Orthopedic surgeries, biomechanical control, custom orthotics adjustments.
How can AFO devices benefit individuals with CMT?
Additional control, foot and ankle alignment support, stability enhancement.
What are some innovative products for foot correction in CMT patients?
Self-adherent silicone supports, Correct Toes devices, toe spreaders.
How can individuals with CMT prevent and manage fungus infections?
Circulatory problems, environmental conditions, specialized toenail laboratories.

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Summary

00:00

Foot Care Solutions for CMT Patients

The webinar focuses on common foot issues in people with CMT, including gait abnormalities and over-the-counter solutions.
Surgical topics are intentionally excluded from the presentation, with an emphasis on DIY products and discussions with foot care specialists.
It is advised to consult a licensed healthcare professional for infections, injuries, or non-healing sores related to foot issues.
Podiatrists trained in orthopedic surgeries and biomechanical control can provide specialized care for CMT foot problems.
Shoes play a crucial role in foot care, with recommendations for high-top basketball shoes for ankle support and flexibility testing before purchase.
Aetrex shoes are recommended for orthopedic support, with caution advised when purchasing online without prior fitting.
Various insoles, orthotics, and gel inserts are available for different foot types, with custom orthotics requiring further adjustments after use.
A combination of rigid and soft orthotics is often recommended for CMT patients, with a focus on durability and corrective support.
Ankle foot orthosis (AFO) devices provide additional control and support for foot and ankle alignment, enhancing stability.
Innovative products like self-adherent silicone supports and Correct Toes devices are introduced as potential solutions for foot correction and muscle stimulation in CMT patients.

14:51

Foot Care Tips for Healthy Toes

Start slow when using toe spreaders, gradually increasing wear time to an hour or 30 minutes initially.
Vary sock densities to protect toes, calluses, and manage heat, with wicking materials aiding in moisture control and comfort for neuropathy.
Change socks every 6-8 hours for comfort and foot health, investing in quality brands online for $12-$15 per pair.
Support hose are crucial for preventing DVT during long flights, with knee-high options suitable for mild swelling and higher options for chronic conditions.
Consider Dr. Comfort brand for support hose, ensuring proper fit and quality materials for foot health.
Use specialized nail clippers for toenails, cutting straight across to avoid issues, with ergonomic options available for ease of use.
Heavy-duty nippers are effective for thick toenails, best used by caregivers or those with experience to prevent damage.
Professionals use stainless steel nippers for toenails, avoiding cheaper options that wear out quickly, and refraining from using cuticle remover tools on the body.
Jawed instruments are ideal for soft tissue trimming, ensuring proper cleaning and disinfection for reuse to prevent infections.
Use herbal creams like Arnica or Calendula for minor scrapes, avoiding unnecessary antibiotic products and opting for saline wound wash for cleaning.

30:09

Preventing and Treating Fungal Foot Infections

Fungus infections on feet are common due to environmental conditions like moist environments, socks, and shoes.
People with circulatory problems or CMT are more prone to fungus infections.
Thick or damaged nails with discoloration should be treated by a podiatrist.
Over-the-counter medications work best for early or limited fungal infections.
Prescription-strength medications are more effective than older antifungal treatments.
Medical pedicures by trained professionals can help treat toenail issues effectively.
Laser treatment can sterilize nails and kill fungus, preventing reinfection.
Specialized toenail laboratories can accurately diagnose fungal infections.
Vicks or Listerine may not cure fungal infections but can create an unfavorable environment for fungus.
Oils and creams can help maintain healthy skin and prevent breakdown, especially in areas prone to rubbing or pressure.

45:24

"Foot Care Tips for Toe Issues"

Notch out the foam at the bottom of the toes to prevent irritation in the web space.
Toe rehab devices are beneficial for toe issues like turning under or bunions.
Use rehab devices after surgery, wearing them at night or during bunion exercises.
A rotary grinder is effective for callus removal, consider custom orthotics for weight distribution.
Place circle pads over sore spots, cut them into horseshoe shapes for better relief.
Build multiple layers of pads using a template drawn with lipstick on moleskin.
Temporary relief for bunions can be achieved by using pads in dressy shoes.
Moleskin can provide relief for pump bumps on the back of the heel.
Exercise feet by spreading toes apart and performing toe movements for muscle strength.
Consider alternative treatments like acupuncture or electrical stimulation for nerve-related foot issues.

01:00:36

Managing CMT: Collaboration, Treatments, and Support

CMT affects muscle function due to nerve issues, but muscle stimulation can be achieved externally with an electronic switch.
Collaboration with Centers of Excellence is recommended for complex problems like CMT.
Restless leg syndrome is common in individuals with CMT, and treatments for both conditions can overlap.
Recommendations for braces and surgery depend on the severity of foot deformities in CMT patients.
Different types of foot pain in CMT patients require varied treatments, including topical remedies, magnesium lotions, and electrical stimulating units.
Chronic pain management in CMT involves mood elevators, positive thinking, and physical activities like Nordic pole walking.
Contact information for further assistance and appreciation for participation in the webinar are provided at the end of the discussion.

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