Treatment
There is no known cure. Orthopedic surgery or equipment (such as braces or orthopedic shoes) may make it easier to walk.
Physical and occupational therapy may help maintain muscle strength and improve independent functioning.
Prognosis (Expectations)
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease slowly gets worse. Some parts of the body may become numb, and pain can range from mild to severe. Eventually the disease may cause disability.
Complications
- Progressive inability to walk
- Progressive weakness
- Injury to areas of the body that have decreased sensation
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if there is persistent weakness or decreased sensation in the feet or legs.
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Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease : Treatment
Review Date : 8/26/2009
Reviewed By : Chad Haldeman-Englert, MD, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section on Medical Genetics, Winston-Salem, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
