Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a circulatory condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the extremities, usually the lower legs and feet. Common symptoms of peripheral artery disease include pain or cramping in the legs during physical activity that typically subsides with rest. As PAD progresses, individuals may experience more severe symptoms, such as pain even at rest, skin discoloration, or ulcers on the feet. These arise because the tissues are not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood. Risk factors for PAD include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle. Early detection and management of peripheral artery disease are vital to prevent serious complications, like severe infections or gangrene. A podiatrist can diagnose PAD through physical examinations and non-invasive tests. If you are experiencing signs of peripheral artery disease affecting your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment options.

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 one of our podiatrists from Sayville 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 Sayville, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones of the foot that result from repetitive stress or overuse, rather than a sudden injury. They most commonly occur in the weight-bearing bones, such as the metatarsals, navicular, calcaneus, or heel bone. These fractures are prevalent in athletes, particularly runners, dancers, and military recruits, due to the repetitive impact on the feet. Stress fractures develop when the bones are unable to withstand the repeated pressure and stress, especially if the activity level increases suddenly or the bones are weakened by conditions like osteoporosis. Symptoms include pain that worsens with activity, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI scan may be required to confirm the fracture. Relief includes rest and avoiding weight-bearing activities. In some cases, a boot or crutches may be needed to allow the fracture to heal properly. If you have injured your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when a child’s arches do not develop properly, causing the entire sole of the foot to touch the ground. This condition can arise from genetic factors or be due to weak foot muscles. In some cases, flat feet are part of normal development, especially in infants whose arches have not yet formed. Symptoms of flat feet in children may include discomfort or pain in the feet, ankles, or legs, particularly after physical activity. Children may also exhibit difficulty in walking or running, and you might notice them having a waddling gait. If your child has pain and discomfort from having flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief methods.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Sayville Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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