Charcot’s disease is an incurable disease. A drug, the riluzole (Rilutek), would slow the progression of the disease in a mild to moderate way.

Doctors offer patients with this disease management of their symptoms. Medicines can reduce muscle pain, cramps or constipation, for example.

Physical therapy sessions can reduce the effect of the disease on the muscles. Their goal is to maintain muscle strength and range of motion as much as possible, and also to increase the feeling of well-being. The occupational therapist can help with the use of crutches, a walker (walker) or a manual or electric wheelchair; he can also advise on the layout of the home. Speech therapy sessions can also be helpful. Their goal is to improve speech, to offer means of communication (communication board, computer) and to provide advice on swallowing and eating (texture of food). It is therefore a whole team of health professionals who meet at the bedside.

As soon as the muscles involved in breathing are reached, it is necessary, if desired, for the patient to be placed on respiratory assistance, which usually involves a tracheostomy.