Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease: Foot Problems, Symptoms & Treatment Guide

Quick answer: Charcot Marie Tooth Disease is a clinical condition that responds to evidence-based treatment when caught early. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and altered function. Diagnosis requires clinical exam, often imaging. Treatment ladder: conservative care first (4-6 weeks), then targeted interventions if needed. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: May 2026

Quick Answer

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is an inherited neuropathy that commonly produces high arches, hammertoes, and progressive foot drop. It is often confused with Charcot foot, which is a different condition entirely: both are named after the same nineteenth-century neurologist, but Charcot-Marie-Tooth is inherited and tends to raise the arch, while Charcot neuroarthropathy is an acquired complication of diabetic neuropathy that collapses it. It is managed rather than cured, with bracing, footwear, and sometimes reconstructive surgery. Appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.

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✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Charcot Marie Tooth Disease?

What is Charcot Marie Tooth? [Is Foot Neuropathy Hereditary?]

Charcot Marie Tooth Disease?

🦶 Dr. Tom Biernacki goes over the absolute best Charcot Marie Tooth disease treatments, the causes & the symptoms. It is possible to live a normal life span with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease, to avoid foot drop and to prevent ulcers. Charcot Marie Tooth can lead to abnormal gait, but we will show you exercises and braces to make it better!
Full Video: https://youtu.be/sPLQdXaOV7c 🦶

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DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2x traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Foot & Ankle Surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist & surgeon in Michigan. This video should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best to not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam & diagnosis. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

At Balance Foot & Ankle, every Michigan patient receives expert podiatric care delivered with genuine attention to their individual needs and goals. Our podiatrists take time to explain diagnoses clearly, discuss all treatment options honestly, and follow up to ensure treatments are working effectively. We serve patients from Livingston and Oakland counties and the broader Southeast Michigan region from our Howell office at 4330 E Grand River and our Bloomfield Township office at 43494 Woodward Ave #208. New patients are always welcome — call (810) 206-1402 to schedule today.

Michigan patients can count on Balance Foot & Ankle for the full range of podiatric services delivered with clinical excellence and genuine patient care. Whether your concern is a common foot condition that has been bothering you for years or an acute injury that needs prompt attention, our team in Howell and Bloomfield Township is ready to help. We offer in-office diagnostics, evidence-based conservative treatment, and surgical correction when needed — all within a practice that values your time, respects your preferences, and communicates clearly throughout the care process. Call us at (810) 206-1402 to take the first step toward better foot health.

Our podiatric team brings decades of combined clinical experience to every patient encounter. We stay current with the latest evidence in podiatric medicine and surgery, applying emerging treatments — including EPAT shockwave therapy, MLS laser, PRP injection, and minimally invasive surgical techniques — where the evidence supports their use for specific conditions. Michigan patients can trust that the treatment recommendations they receive at Balance Foot & Ankle reflect the current standard of care, not outdated approaches. Call (810) 206-1402 to schedule at our Howell or Bloomfield Township office.


Related Treatment Guides

Insurance questions are easy to address before you schedule — call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 and our insurance team will verify your specific plan’s coverage for the services you need. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Priority Health, HAP, and Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. Our verification process identifies your copay, deductible status, and any prior authorization requirements in advance, so you can make an informed scheduling decision. Both our Howell and Bloomfield Township locations offer convenient daytime and early morning appointment times to fit busy schedules.

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Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for diabetic foot care

Advantages

  • ✓ Daily inspection prevents amputation
  • ✓ Most insurance covers DME
  • ✓ Custom orthotics help

Considerations

  • ✗ Daily commitment required
  • ✗ Slow wound healing
  • ✗ Charcot risk if neuropathy

Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for diabetic foot care

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.

Drew Moonwalker Diabetic Shoe Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Medicare-covered diabetic footwear

Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links to products we recommend. If you purchase through these links, Balance Foot & Ankle may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we use with our patients.

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Diabetic Compression Socks Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Daily protection + circulation

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Hibiclens Antiseptic Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Wound prep + paronychia care

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Magnifying Mirror with Light Dr. Tom’s Pick

Best for: Daily foot inspection

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Appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.

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In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot and ankle conditions, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with expert evaluations and advanced in-office care.

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Medical References
  1. Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Conservative Management (PubMed)
  2. Plantar Fasciitis (APMA)
  3. Diagnosis and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (PubMed / AAFP)
  4. Heel Pain (APMA)
This article has been reviewed for medical accuracy by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM. References are provided for informational purposes.

More questions patients ask

What is Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and who does it affect?

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is the most common inherited peripheral neuropathy, affecting approximately 1 in 2,500 people. It causes progressive weakness and sensory loss in the feet and hands due to peripheral nerve degeneration. Balance Foot & Ankle provides specialized CMT foot care in Howell and Bloomfield Township, Michigan. Call (810) 206-1402.

What are the most common symptoms of CMT disease?

Common symptoms include high arches, hammertoes, difficulty lifting the foot (foot drop), muscle cramps, ankle sprains, sensory loss in the feet, and progressive difficulty with walking. Symptoms typically begin in adolescence but can start in childhood or adulthood. Balance Foot & Ankle diagnoses and manages CMT foot symptoms.

How is CMT different from diabetic neuropathy?

CMT is genetic, while diabetic neuropathy is acquired from chronically elevated blood sugar. CMT typically causes more prominent motor weakness and foot deformity, while diabetic neuropathy primarily affects sensation. Both require specialized podiatric care. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township treats both conditions.

Is there genetic testing for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease?

Yes — genetic testing can identify the specific CMT mutation and subtype, which has implications for prognosis, treatment planning, and family counseling. Testing is ordered through neurology. Balance Foot & Ankle works with neurologists to provide coordinated care for genetically confirmed CMT patients.

What is the outlook for someone with CMT disease?

CMT generally progresses slowly and does not shorten life expectancy. Most people with CMT maintain significant mobility into middle age and beyond with proper management — orthotics, bracing, physical therapy, and when needed, surgery. Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 supports CMT patients in maintaining maximum foot function throughout their lives.

Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.

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Howell

4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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43494 Woodward Ave #208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

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