What Is Neuropathic Arthritis?

Neuropathic arthritis is also referred to as Charcot’s joint or neuropathic arthropathy. In the case of neuropathic arthritis, the nerve associated with a specific joint, or a group of joints, becomes damaged and is unable to send signals to the brain. This prevents the nerve from being able to alert the brain that there is damage occurring with the joint. 

There are different theories as to what causes the bony destruction with this neuropathic condition and what sustains it.  Over time, the cartilage between bones can become completely worn down and the joint becomes damaged as a result of repeated microtraumas. Due to the loss of sensation from nerve damage, the severity of joint damage often goes undetected.   Many scientists now believe that a traumatic incident can start this cascade of problems in the foot of a person with neuropathy.  Unfortunately, due to the lack of sensation, often it is impossible to determine when that trauma may have happened.  It could have been something as simple as stepping off of a curb, or it could be from an obvious fall.   

Typically, once pain is felt (a common early symptom), it does not match the higher degree of joint damage.  In about 10-20% of those with neuropathy, there is pain that is felt generally.  But the rest have little if any sensation, to include pain.