September is Peripheral Artery Disease Awareness Month! Protect your feet and overall health—early detection of PAD can prevent serious complications. 🩺 #PADAwareness #FootHealth #Podiatry #FFLC

Ravnik Singh
Kevin Lam, DPM, FACFAS

As a podiatrist, I’m dedicated to keeping your feet healthy, but sometimes foot problems can be a sign of something more serious. One condition that often flies under the radar is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). Since September is Peripheral Artery Disease Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to talk about what PAD is, how it can affect your foot health, and what you can do to stay healthy.

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral Artery Disease is a condition that occurs when the arteries that supply blood to your limbs become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits, also known as atherosclerosis.

This restricted blood flow can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and even wounds that are slow to heal, particularly in your legs and feet.

You might not think of your feet as the first place where a circulatory problem would show up, but they are often where the earliest signs of PAD appear. Because your feet are the farthest from your heart, they’re usually the first to suffer when blood flow is compromised.

Why Should You Care About PAD?

PAD is more than just a nuisance; it’s a serious condition that can have severe consequences if left untreated. Reduced blood flow means your feet aren’t getting the oxygen and nutrients they need, which can lead to complications like ulcers, infections, and, in severe cases, gangrene. In some instances, this can even result in the need for amputation.

But the implications of PAD go beyond your feet. PAD is a warning sign that you might have atherosclerosis elsewhere in your body, which increases your risk for heart attacks and strokes. That’s why it’s so important to catch PAD early – not only to protect your feet but also your overall health.

What are the Signs of PAD?

So, how do you know if you might have PAD? Some of the symptoms to watch out for include:

– Leg pain or cramping during activity: This pain, called claudication, typically occurs when walking or climbing stairs and usually goes away with rest.

– Coldness in your lower leg or foot: Especially when compared with the other leg.

– Soreness on your feet or legs that won’t heal: If you notice wounds that are slow to heal, it could be a sign of poor circulation.

– A change in the color of your legs: Your skin may appear pale, bluish, or have a shiny texture.
– Weak or no pulse in your feet or legs: Reduced blood flow can make it hard to detect a pulse in your feet.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment.

How Can a Podiatrist Help

As a podiatrist, I am trained to recognize the early signs of PAD and can help you take the necessary steps to manage the condition. If I suspect you might have PAD, I can perform a simple, non-invasive test called an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test. This test compares the blood pressure in your ankle to the blood pressure in your arm to see how well blood is flowing to your legs and feet.
If the test suggests that you have PAD, I will refer you to a vascular specialist who can perform more detailed tests and help create a treatment plan. This plan might include lifestyle changes, medications, or in some cases, procedures to improve blood flow.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Feet?

The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of PAD and keep your feet healthy.

– Quit Smoking: Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for PAD. Quitting can significantly improve your circulation.

– Exercise Regularly: Walking and other forms of exercise help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms of PAD.

– Eat a heart-healthy diet: A diet low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can help prevent atherosclerosis.

– Manage chronic conditions: If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, it’s crucial to keep these conditions under control.

Additionally, proper foot care is essential, especially if you have PAD or are at risk. This includes keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing comfortable shoes that fit well, and checking your feet daily for any cuts, sores, or changes in color.

September is PAD Awareness Month

September is the perfect time to take action for your foot health and overall well-being. If you’re over 50, have a history of smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, or if you’ve noticed any symptoms that could be related to PAD, don’t wait – schedule a check-up today.

Early detection is key to managing PAD and preventing serious complications. By staying informed and proactive, you can help protect your feet and lower your risk for heart attacks and strokes.
Remember, your feet are your foundation. Let’s work together to keep them healthy, strong, and pain-free.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of PAD, don’t hesitate contacting Dr. Singh’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com to schedule an appointment.

Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimally Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling