Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a circulatory condition that occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, especially the legs and feet. Limited circulation restricts oxygen and nutrients needed for healthy tissue, which can lead to slow healing, skin changes, and increased risk of infection. Individuals may notice cramping, cold feet, color changes, or decreased or absent pulses in the feet. Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle. Without proper care, complications may become serious and affect mobility. If you have symptoms of PAD in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can evaluate circulation, monitor foot health, and coordinate care to prevent complications. 

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 one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Exercises for foot problems can improve strength, flexibility, and support long-term foot health, when done correctly. Choosing the right level of exercise is important because pushing too hard can increase pain or delay healing. Gentle movements performed with proper form help activate muscles without causing strain. Repetitions should be kept comfortable, and spread out in small amounts during the day rather than completed all at once. Allowing time for rest between exercise sessions gives tissues a chance to recover and adapt. A podiatrist can help by identifying the cause of foot pain, creating an individualized exercise plan, and guiding safe progression. If foot discomfort or weakness is limiting daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief tips, which may include an exercise program tailored to your needs. 

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 one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 doctors 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 offices located in Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Knowing when to replace walking shoes is important for protecting foot health and maintaining proper support with every step. Over time, the cushioning and stability in walking shoes gradually break down, even if the shoes still appear intact. Most walking shoes are designed to last between 350 and 500 miles, which often equals three to six months for people who walk regularly. Worn shoes can alter gait mechanics and place added stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and lower legs. Body weight, walking frequency, and surface type can all influence how quickly shoes wear out. Common signs of excessive wear include uneven sole breakdown, reduced shock absorption, visible creasing in the midsole, or changes in walking comfort. A podiatrist can evaluate walking patterns, inspect shoe wear, and recommend appropriate footwear based on foot structure and activity level. For help with foot pain caused by walking, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 offices located in Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned, and the tip of the toe gradually shifts toward the others. This condition often develops when the foot rolls inward, as seen with flat feet, placing extra stress on the joint, and it can be worsened by wearing tight or pointy shoes that crowd the toes. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and limited motion of the toe joint that may affect walking and daily comfort. Risk factors include family history, foot structure, and long-term footwear choices. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, recommend custom orthotics, footwear changes, or advanced treatment options. If you have symptoms of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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