Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) Disease and the role of Bespoke Footwear in Foot Health and Mobility
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a group of inherited neurological disorders that affect the peripheral nerves, the nerves responsible for controlling muscles and relaying sensory information from the limbs to the brain. One of the earliest and most persistent challenges faced by people with CMT is foot deformity and difficulty walking, making proper Bespoke Orthopaedic Footwear an essential part of daily life.
For many people that live with CMT, Bespoke Orthopaedic Footwear can be a transformative solution. Tailored to each individual’s unique foot shape and walking mechanics, custom made shoes can help to provide the comfort, support and protection that many off the shelf shoes simply can’t.
What is Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease?
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease affects around 1 in 2,500 people and is one of the most common inherited neurological conditions. It causes progressive damage to the peripheral nerves, this can result in many resulting issues such as muscle weakness in the feet, ankles and lower legs, hammer toes and other toe deformities, foot drop and difficulty lifting the foot while walking, high arches (Pes Cavus), loss of sensation in the feet and lower legs which can all result in poor balance and coordination.
Because the condition alters the shape and function of the feet, choosing the right footwear becomes not just a matter of comfort, but also a critical part of maintaining mobility and preventing injury.
The Challenges of Footwear for people with CMT
Many people with CMT can find footwear quite challenging, it can often be difficult to find footwear that fits properly around high arches, that has enough depth for hammertoes and other misshapen toes, that can provide enough support for weak ankles or allow room to accommodate orthotics or Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs), prevent skin damage to fragile skin and offer the stability required to help with balance issues and gait abnormalities.
Most standard shoes are not designed with many of these needs in mind, this can make off the shelf footwear often painful to wear, pressure sores, and an increased risk of falls or injury.
Bespoke Orthopaedic Footwear can really make a difference for those with moderate to severe CMT-related foot deformities, people using AFOs or orthotics, those with limited mobility or balance issues that is causing frequent falls, fatigue or pain due to poor footwear fit, and those people wishing to maintain independent and active lifestyles for as long as possible.
How Bespoke Footwear Support Individuals with Charcot-Marie-Tooth
We will handcraft and create Bespoke footwear for you that are based on detailed measurements and gait assessments. They address the specific structural and functional needs of the wearer, making them ideal for people with CMT.
Bespoke footwear is designed to comfortably fit around high arches, claw toes and hammertoes, avoiding pressure and friction that causes pain or skin damage, accommodating the various foot deformities and unusual, shapes of the CMT foot.
Room and allowances are made where needed in order for footwear to house orthotics or AFO’s, alternatively we have the ability to create footwear that can act as the supportive device as well as a supportive cushioned orthotic to support the foot internally.
Careful consideration is given when designing the upper of the shoe or boot, soft giving leathers and seam placement both externally and internally, as well as carefully placed cushioning is crucial to help protect your fragile skin against blisters, callouses and pressure points, helping to prevent pressure sores and ulcers, also important for reduced sensation and neuropathy.
Soles and heels that are designed to increase stability and balance, lateral support from the heel forward is vital for those with weak ankles or poor proprioception.
Rocker soles and wedges are ideal variations, as well as other sole modifications that can be incorporated into the sole design that can help with foot drop and improve the heel-to-toe transition making walking easier and safer.
Some of the key features we may like to feature in the design of your footwear might be deep toe boxes to prevent the rubbing of funny or deformed toes. Custom made soft cushioned supportive footbeds and orthotics for high arches, Adjustable closures for ease of wear and a good fit over high insteps, stabilising soles and heels. As well as working with you to create something you feel is stylish, functional and reflective of your personality, giving you confidence in every step and empowering your everyday.
Step into support with Bespoke Footwear for CMT
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease presents ongoing challenges when it comes to mobility, but Bespoke Orthopaedic Footwear can offer real, lasting solutions. From accommodating complex foot shapes to improving gait and balance, handcrafted bespoke footwear are a vital part of managing the solution effectively.
If you or someone you know is living with CMT and struggling to find the right footwear, consider the custom approach, designed by experts and built around your individual needs. With Bespoke Orthopaedic Footwear, every step becomes more stable, supported and comfortable.
If you would like any further help and advice please do not hesitate to contact the team at their Cotswold workshop on 01386 700855 or enquiries@billbird.co.uk