Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease: physical and occupational therapy, braces, and splints, per NINDS
NINDS says that in Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), “Physical and occupational therapy, braces and other orthopedic devices, and orthopedic surgery may help with symptoms.” This page quotes NINDS only.
Quoted from official pages checked November 12, 2026. Confirm current information on those sites. This page is not medical advice and does not describe any patient’s care.
Source read on November 12, 2026: NINDS’s Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease page (last reviewed on September 02, 2026).
Treatment
NINDS states: “There is no cure for CMT, but treatments can help manage symptoms. It is important to maintain mobility, flexibility, and muscle strength as much as possible. Starting a treatment program soon after symptoms begin can help people maintain quality of life.”
Devices
NINDS states: “High-top shoes or boots can support weak ankles, while thumb splints can help with hand weakness and fine motor skills (using small hand muscles to do things). Using assistive devices like these early on (before disability sets in) may prevent muscle strain and reduce muscle weakening.” It adds: “Some people with CMT may need foot or leg braces or other supportive equipment to stay mobile.”
Hand and splinting work is described on hand therapy.
What this page does not do
It does not repeat NINDS’s CMT types, genetics, or research updates. It is not medical advice and does not recommend any treatment, device, or product. Scope of practice is set by state law; check your state board.