Walking on eggshells

The main symptom of the peripheral arterial disease is the restriction of blood flow to the feet. The disease is caused by excessive deposits of cholesterol in the arteries and veins, which leads to the narrowing of the arteries which take blood away from the heart and to the feet and other parts of the body far away from the heart. When a patient is suffering from PAD, the health of their feet deteriorates gradually, and if the condition is not managed in time, loss of limbs could occur. Fortunately, there are ways that a podiatrist can help you manage complications arising from peripheral artery disease. 

PAD diagnosis 

Many people with PAD do not even realise that they are suffering from the condition until it is well into its advanced stages. In most cases, therefore, patients will visit the podiatrist, looking for treatment for any of the following symptoms:

•    Pain in the legs when walking

•    Sores that won't heal on the feet, heels and toes

•    Cold feet

•    Numbness and weakness in the feet and legs

•    Change in the colour of the legs

A competent podiatrist usually assesses these conditions and determines the possible link there could be between the signs and poor circulation. They help you get the right tests and a diagnosis, which is the first step towards managing the condition.

Managing foot health 

Small injuries and anomalies to the feet tend to get very complicated for people with peripheral heart disease. You, therefore, need to be in constant communication with a foot health specialist to manage the treatment on an ongoing basis. The podiatrist will recommend the right foot care products to use to manage blisters, calluses, bruises and toenail infections and other complications which may arise. Note that if you also have diabetes, these wounds will be harder to manage, and a podiatrist will be a necessity.

Recommending complex treatment

A podiatrist is trained to test your wounds and the general condition of your feet to determine whether you are in a position to recover from PAD-related wounds or not. In case they feel you need more specialised treatment such as surgery, they will inform you and help you get an appointment with a foot surgeon or other specialist.

The ultimate solution to PAD-related foot health complications is reducing cholesterol levels in the body. However, before you get there, a podiatrist will help you manage the complication and minimise damage to your feet and legs.