Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage of the arteries, typically in the legs, due to the buildup of fatty deposits. This restricts blood flow to the limbs, affecting the feet and causing various symptoms. Those at risk include smokers, diabetic patients, individuals with high blood pressure or cholesterol, and those with a family history of cardiovascular disease. Symptoms may include leg pain, cramping, numbness, weakness, or coldness in the feet and legs, especially during physical activity. However, some people with PAD may not experience any symptoms, a condition known as asymptomatic PAD. A podiatrist evaluates PAD through a comprehensive consultation, which may include assessing symptoms, and medical history, and performing tests like ankle-brachial index measurements or Doppler ultrasound to determine blood flow. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, improving circulation, and reducing the risk of complications through lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical interventions. If you suffer from foot symptoms of PAD, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

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 Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. 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 offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Preventing slips, trips, and falls is essential for avoiding injuries, including those that are foot-related. Falls account for nearly one-third of non-fatal injuries in the United States, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks. In the home, maintaining good housekeeping practices and promptly addressing spills or leaks can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Proper maintenance of flooring and walking surfaces is also essential to prevent slips and trips. Differentiating between slip-resistant footwear for wet or slippery conditions and shoes with proper traction for outdoor activities can further enhance safety. By prioritizing preventive measures, individuals can safeguard against falls and protect their overall well-being. If you have sustained a foot-related injury from a slip, trip, or fall, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment. This medical professional can provide valuable guidance on footwear selection and foot care practices to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls, especially for individuals with underlying foot conditions or mobility issues.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot care is a critical aspect of diabetic management, as individuals with diabetes are prone to foot comp-lications. Maintaining skin integrity is essential, especially in diabetic feet where issues like neuropathy and poor circulation can lead to ulcers, infections, and possibly even amputations. Preventive care and regular screening are paramount in mitigating risks. A multidisciplinary team, including podiatrists, plays a pivotal role in diabetic foot care. Podiatrists specialize in assessing foot health, identifying early signs of complications, and providing tailored interventions. They offer expertise in wound care, orthotic management, and footwear recommendations, all aimed at preventing and managing foot problems. By emphasizing preventive measures, such as daily foot inspections, proper hygiene, and appropriate footwear, podiatrists collaborate with patients to minimize the likelihood of diabetic foot complications. If you are a diabetic patient, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist as part of your diabetes management.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot pain affects people of all ages and lifestyles. Among those who suffer most are individuals who spend long hours standing or walking, such as healthcare professionals, retail workers, and athletes. Older people are also more prone to developing foot conditions. Common problems leading to foot pain include various foot and nail conditions like bunions, ingrown toenails, and fungal toenail infections. Additionally, bone and joint pain, such as plantar fasciitis and arthritis, contribute significantly to discomfort. Tingling and numbness may also occur due to nerve compression or conditions like peripheral neuropathy. These issues can impair mobility and quality of life if left untreated. Proper footwear, custom-made orthotics, stretching exercises, and maintaining a healthy weight play a part in preventing and managing foot pain. If you are suffering from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to address underlying causes, obtain treatment, and prevent complications.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Michael D. Garvin from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated many ballet dancers are afflicted with ingrown toenails. This is often the result of balancing on top of the toes, which can cause the corner of the nail to grow into the surrounding skin. An ingrown toenail typically causes pain and discomfort and may become infected if it is not treated promptly. Many ballet dancers may notice soreness while putting on ballet slippers and pointing the toes can cause extreme pain. Some of the symptoms associated with ingrown toenails can include swelling around the nail, or you may notice a discharge draining from the nail. Mild relief can be found when the toe is soaked in warm water and is helpful in softening the skin around the affected area. If you feel you have an ingrown toenail, consult with a podiatrist so proper treatment can begin.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Michael D. Garvin of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Port St. Lucie, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.