What it is
It does not usually affect life expectancy. How severe it is varies widely, even within the same family.
There is no cure, but physiotherapy, occupational therapy, foot braces and supportive shoes help, and surgery can correct foot shape problems.
Common signs
- Weakness in the feet, ankles and legs
- High-arched feet or curled toes
- Frequent tripping and ankle sprains
- Numbness in the feet and hands
- Weak hands later on
How it is usually diagnosed
- Neurological examination
- Nerve conduction studies
- Genetic testing
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Nerve conduction study reports
- Genetic test results
- Orthotics and physiotherapy notes
- A list of medicines that can worsen nerve damage
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which type is it, and how is it inherited?
- Which braces or aids would help me?
- Are there medicines I should avoid?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- There are no emergency signs specific to CMT; seek urgent care for sudden weakness or breathing difficulty
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.