Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, commonly abbreviated as CMT, is a group of inherited disorders that affect the peripheral nerves—the nerves that carry signals between the brain and spinal cord and the muscles and sensory organs throughout the body.
Because CMT usually develops gradually, the earliest signs can sometimes be mistaken for clumsiness, poor balance, ordinary muscle weakness, or foot problems. Symptoms can also vary considerably from one person to another, even within the same family.
Recognizing the possible warning signs can help someone seek appropriate medical evaluation sooner.
What Is Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease?
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a group of hereditary peripheral neuropathies. Different genetic changes can affect the structure or function of peripheral nerves, eventually interfering with muscle movement and sensation.
More than 80 genes have been associated with CMT, and the condition can be inherited in several different patterns.
CMT is generally a slowly progressive condition. It often begins in the feet and lower legs before affecting the hands and forearms, although the age of onset and severity can differ substantially.
Here are 12 key signs to know.
1. High-Arched Feet
One of the classic physical signs associated with CMT is an unusually high arch in the foot, known medically as pes cavus.
The imbalance between weakened and relatively stronger muscles can gradually alter the shape of the foot. Over time, the arch may become more pronounced, sometimes making the ankle less stable.
Not everyone with high arches has CMT. High-arched feet can occur for many other reasons, so this sign alone does not establish a diagnosis.
2. Foot Drop
Foot drop occurs when a person has difficulty lifting the front part of the foot while walking.
Someone with foot drop may:
- Drag the toes on the ground
- Lift the knee unusually high when walking
- Trip more frequently
- Have difficulty walking on uneven surfaces
- Find stairs more challenging
In children, repeated tripping or difficulty lifting the feet can sometimes be among the earliest noticeable signs.
3. Weakness in the Feet, Ankles, and Lower Legs
CMT commonly causes weakness in the muscles furthest from the center of the body.
This often begins in the feet and ankles. Activities that once seemed easy—such as running, climbing stairs, standing on tiptoes, or walking long distances—may gradually become more difficult.
The weakness is typically progressive, although the rate of progression can vary significantly between individuals.
4. Muscle Wasting in the Lower Legs
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