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 Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. 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 Lexington, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A contusion, commonly known as a bruise, occurs when small blood vessels under the skin are damaged, often due to a direct impact or trauma. In the context of the feet or ankle bones, a contusion might result from a fall, sports injury, or even bumping the area against a hard surface. When a contusion happens, blood leaks from the damaged vessels into the surrounding tissues, causing discoloration, swelling, and tenderness. Diagnosis is usually based on physical examination, but in severe cases, imaging tests may be required. Treatment involves rest, compression, and elevation, in addition to mild pain relievers, if necessary. If you have a contusion that does not seem to be healing or that is causing pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Patricia A. Kirk, DPM from Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lexington, TN . 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 Patricia A. Kirk, DPM of Kirk Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Lexington, TN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.