Peripheral arterial disease, also known as PAD, is a circulatory condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most often the legs and feet. It commonly develops due to a buildup of fatty deposits within the arteries. The ankle brachial index is a simple noninvasive test that compares blood pressure in the ankle to blood pressure in the arm to assess circulation and detect blockage. Symptoms include leg pain while walking, cramping, numbness, slow healing wounds, or cold feet. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. A podiatrist can perform vascular assessments, monitor foot health, and recommend appropriate treatment. If you have symptoms of PAD, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help determine whether you have this condition and provide treatment.

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 Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An everyday foot care routine is essential to maintain healthy, comfortable feet and prevent common problems. Daily cleaning with mild soap and water removes dirt and bacteria, while proper drying, especially between the toes, helps prevent fungal infections. Applying moisturizer keeps skin soft and prevents cracks, and regular exfoliation removes dead skin that can build up and cause discomfort. Trimming nails carefully reduces the risk of ingrown toenails and infections. Additionally, poor foot hygiene can lead to athlete’s foot, corns, calluses, fungal infections, and odor. A podiatrist can assess foot health, provide guidance on effective routines, and treat any developing issues. If you have foot or ankle pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Foot pain during exercise is a common complaint and can stem from several underlying issues. Repetitive impact from walking, running, or court sports places stress on bones, muscles, and soft tissues. Wearing poorly fitting shoes or footwear without proper support may increase pressure and strain, especially during high-impact activity. Overuse injuries such as plantar fasciitis, tendon irritation, and stress reactions often develop gradually and worsen with continued exercise. Structural factors like flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns can also affect how force is distributed through the foot. Sudden changes in activity level, intensity, or surface may overload tissues that are not yet conditioned. Addressing foot pain early helps prevent more serious injury. Rest, activity modification, stretching, and wearing supportive footwear are often helpful first steps. Orthotics may improve alignment and reduce strain during movement. When foot pain continues during or after exercise, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Ankle arthritis is a condition defined by inflammation and degeneration of the ankle joint, leading to pain and reduced mobility. It commonly develops from wear and tear, previous injuries, or excess stress placed on the joint. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, cracking or grinding sensations, and pain that may worsen with activity. As the condition progresses with time, joint movement can become more limited, and daily activities may feel increasingly difficult. Being overweight can increase pressure on the ankle joint and accelerate joint breakdown. A podiatrist can evaluate ankle arthritis, confirm a diagnosis, and recommend treatments to reduce pain, improve function, and slow progression. If you have symptoms of ankle  arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and management tips.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.