Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease Symptoms

Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease Symptoms

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is one of several hereditary neuropathies that affect the peripheral nervous system. CMT affects about 1 in every 2,500 people, making it one of the most common inherited neurological disorders worldwide.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth symptoms include muscle weakness, muscle wasting, foot drop, CMT foot deformity, charcot marie tooth feet, and difficulty with fine motor skills in CMT hands. These symptoms are caused by damage to the nerves that control muscle movement and sensation in the arms, legs, hands, and feet. Some other charcot-marie-tooth disease symptoms may include CMT gastrointestinal problems, CMT fatigue, CMT tremor, and neuropathic pain.

There are several different types of symptoms of CMT as well as many types of Charcot-Marie-Tooth CMT, including CMT1A, CMT2A, and HNPP. Each type of CMT is caused by a different genetic mutation. Therefore, CMT genetic testing can be used to diagnose CMT disease and determine which type a person has.

The Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation (HNF) is an organization that funds CMT research through the Therapeutic Research in Accelerated Discovery (TRIAD) initiative which focuses on finding CMT treatments and cures, and includes a global CMT patient registry called the Global Registry for Inherited Neuropathies (GRIN). It also provides support and resources for people living with CMT and other hereditary neuropathies. HNF’s website, hnf-cure.org,  provides valuable CMT resources for people seeking CMT support.

One of the most common treatments for CMT is the use of ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs) and other braces to support the feet and legs. Shoes for CMT can be found via a growing group of inclusive clothing brands. Knowing which CMT AFO is best for you can help with foot deformities and prevent falls. Physical therapy and CMT exercises can also benefit people with CMT. Vitamins for CMT patients and nutrition play important roles in daily function.

HNF has established a network to help individuals find a CMT Center of Excellence and CMT specialist near them. There are many located throughout the United States to provide specialized care for people with CMT. These centers offer comprehensive care, including genetic testing for CMT, CMT diagnosis, and CMT treatment options such as bracing, occupational therapy, cmt physical therapy, and respiratory therapy. They also conduct research to improve their understanding of CMT disease symptoms and develop new treatments.

For people living with CMT, finding support and resources is crucial. HNF provides a wealth of information to help answer the questions, what is CMT and what resources are there? Other resources include support with finding a CMT specialist, tips for managing CMT pain symptoms, and how to get tested for cmt. They also offer a community of support through their online forums and support groups.

In conclusion, Charcot Marie Tooth disease is a hereditary neuropathy that affects many people worldwide. While there is no cure for CMT, there are treatments and resources available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation provides valuable CMT resources for people living with Charcot Marie Tooth CMT, offering support, information, and access to specialized care. If you or someone you know is living with CMT, or would like to know more about CMT testing, consider contacting HNF for CMT help and support.