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Peripheral artery disease, often called PAD, occurs when arteries become narrowed and reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. This limits oxygen delivery to tissues, which can lead to pain, especially during walking, known as claudication. Some people may also notice cold feet, skin color changes, or slower nail and hair growth. In more advanced cases, wounds on the feet may heal very slowly or not at all, increasing the risk of infection. Because the feet are far from the heart, they are especially vulnerable to poor circulation. Early detection is important to help prevent serious complications. A podiatrist can check circulation, monitor skin health, and help manage foot-related risks of PAD through routine care and guidance. They also work with other providers as needed. If you have leg pain with walking or slow-healing foot wounds, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot care is a key part of managing diabetes, because high blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce circulation in the feet. This can make it harder to feel injuries and slower for wounds to heal. Regular evaluation by a podiatrist helps detect changes, such as reduced sensation, skin breakdown, or pressure points. A podiatrist can assess blood flow, check for nerve damage, and examine the skin and nails for signs of concern. Treatment for diabetic foot problems includes removing thickened skin in a safe, sterile setting, and managing wounds. Custom orthotics or protective footwear or casting can help to reduce pressure on high-risk areas. Education on proper foot monitoring and risk awareness is also part of ongoing diabetic foot care. Early detection and professional treatment from a podiatrist play an important role in preventing complications and preserving foot health. If you have diabetes-related foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls excessively inward while walking or running. This is often due to a flexible foot structure and increased side-to-side movement. It can develop from genetics, obesity, arthritis, or nerve issues related to diabetes that affect muscle control and stability. Symptoms include foot pain, heel discomfort, ankle strain, and uneven shoe wear. Risk factors involve flat arches, repetitive impact activities, and prolonged standing, which can place added stress on joints and ligaments. A podiatrist can evaluate gait mechanics and identify underlying causes. Treatment options include custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, and supportive footwear to improve alignment. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the podiatrists from New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Smoker’s feet is a term used to describe foot problems linked to reduced blood flow caused by smoking. Nicotine narrows blood vessels, which limits circulation to the feet and toes. Signs include coldness, color changes, slow-growing nails, and a tingling or numb feeling. People may notice pain when walking or sores that heal slowly. As blood supply worsens, there is a higher risk of infection, nerve damage, and tissue breakdown. In severe cases, parts of the skin may not receive enough oxygen, leading to serious complications. Smoking can weaken bones, which may increase the risk of fractures and delay healing. A podiatrist can assess circulation, check nerve function, and look for skin changes. Imaging and vascular testing may be used to evaluate blood flow and guide care. If you have symptoms of smoker's feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact the podiatrists of New England Family Foot Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Milton, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.