Table 2: Eichenholtz classifications [13].
Stage | Clinical findings | Treatment |
I (development) | Swelling, redness, warmth, ligamentous laxity | Prevented weight bearing with entire contact shedding or prefabricated pneumatic brace. Shed or brace should be utilized until radiographic settlement of fragmentation and re-emergence of ordinary skin temperature (normally required for 2-4 months). |
II (coalescence) | Decreased warmth, decreased swelling, decreased erythema | Entire contact shedding, built pneumatic brace, Charcot grip orthotic walker, or clamshell tarsus-foot orthosis |
III (reconstruction) | Absence of warmth, absence of swelling, absence of erythema, stable joint ± fixed deformity |
Plantigrade heel: Personalized inlay shoes with strong shank and rocker under sole. Nonplantigrade heel or discharge: Débridement, exostectomy, deformity alteration, or connection with interior fixation. |