Peripheral arterial disease, or PAD, is a common complication of diabetes, where poor circulation affects the blood flow to the feet and legs. This reduced circulation can cause the skin to become dry, pale, or even develop ulcers. If left untreated, PAD can lead to serious complications, including infections or amputation. PAD typically results from long-term high blood sugar, which damages blood vessels. The symptoms may include cold feet, slow-healing sores, or numbness. Without proper treatment, the lack of blood flow makes it harder for the body to fight infections and increases the risk of foot ulcers. Once the ulcers form, they can be difficult to heal and are linked to more adverse outcomes, including infections. Regular foot exams, proper wound care, and managing blood sugar levels are key to preventing complications. A podiatrist can help monitor and treat PAD, ensuring the best possible outcomes. If you have foot issues as the result of diabetes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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. Rouder from S.I. 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 Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Seed corns, medically known as heloma miliare, are small, well-defined areas of thickened skin that typically form on the soles of the feet. These hard, circular spots are often caused by friction, pressure, or dry skin, and they may appear in clusters. Seed corns are distinct from calluses and plantar warts. Calluses are larger and irregularly shaped, while plantar warts disrupt the skin's natural lines and may include tiny dark dots. Though seed corns are typically painless, they can cause some discomfort, especially in weight-bearing areas of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose seed corns through a foot examination and distinguish them from other conditions. Treatment includes safely trimming the thickened skin to reduce discomfort, as well as addressing underlying factors like wearing ill-fitting shoes or excessive pressure. Podiatrists also provide guidance on preventive measures, such as selecting proper footwear and using orthotic devices to minimize friction. If you have a problematic corn on your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for guidance.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Rouder of S.I. Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Leg and ankle edema, or swelling, occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower limbs. This condition is often caused by poor circulation, injury, prolonged sitting or standing, or underlying medical issues like heart, kidney, or liver disease. Edema can be uncomfortable, restrict movement, and, if untreated, can lead to skin infections or sores. Seeing a podiatrist for leg and ankle edema can be beneficial. A podiatrist will assess the underlying causes, which may involve checking circulation, reviewing your medical history, and performing diagnostic tests. This type of doctor can recommend treatments such as compression therapy, elevation techniques, and exercises to reduce fluid buildup. For chronic cases, they might collaborate with other healthcare providers. If you have persistent edema in your lower limbs, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you identify underlying causes and provide relief strategies.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Rouder of S.I. Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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