Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT)

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) comprises a group of disorders that affect the peripheral nerves — nerves that lie outside the brain and spinal column. CMT is one of the most common inherited neurological disorders, affecting approximately 2.8 million people worldwide. There are 90 different kinds of CMT, each caused by a different mutation.


Symptoms

Symptoms of CMT most often begin in adolescence or early adulthood, and progression is gradual. The severity of the symptoms varies greatly from individual to individual. They typically include:

  • Foot drop (inability to hold the foot horizontally)
  • Foot deformities, such as high arches or hammertoes
  • Loss of muscle strength in lower legs, leading to skinny calves
  • Numbness in the feet
  • Difficulty with balance
  • Weakness and muscle atrophy in the hands (typically occurs later in the disease)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is established through a thorough neurological evaluation, including a complete family history, physical exam, nerve conduction tests, and appropriate genetic screening.


Orthotic management

Leg orthoses can help manage some of the symptoms associated with CMT. The products below are fitting examples. Whether a product is suitable for you and whether you are capable of exploiting its full functionality depends on many different factors. Your physical condition, fitness, and a detailed medical examination are all factors. Your doctor or orthotist will decide which product would be the most suitable for your condition. We are happy to support you.


Related products