5 Ways Artery Disease Affects Your Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common problem that is characterized by a buildup of plaque in the arteries. This accumulation decreases blood flow to the extremities, often showing telltale signs in your feet and ankles before becoming noticeable in other areas. The effects of PAD can be very gradual and subtle, so be sure to pay attention to the condition of your feet and ankles and see your foot doctor if you have any of the following symptoms of PAD. This is especially important for patients who have diabetes.

5 of the ways that narrowing of the arteries can affect your feet and ankles include the following:

  1. Slower healing of scrapes and wounds—When your blood flow is impaired, your immune system doesn’t function efficiently which makes cuts and scrapes heal more slowly. In combination with the peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes, you can develop unnoticed infections that could lead to amputation, so be sure to see your foot doctor regularly.

  2. Muscle cramps and pain in the lower legs and feet—Cramping is most noticeable after walking and exercising and may interfere with restful sleep.

  3. Slowed growth of toenails and hair—Decreased venous circulation also makes hair and nails grow more slowly.

  4. Change in skin texture—You will also notice that the skin on your feet becomes more dehydrated causing an increase in calluses.

  5. Decreased temperature of your lower legs and feet—The reduced blood flow also makes your feet and legs colder.

If you are showing signs of peripheral artery disease in your feet and ankles, see your foot doctor to help prevent and treat any complications.  Call Tri County Foot & Ankle Center , located in Bayonne, Randolph, Kearny, Jersey City, Clifton and East Brunswick, NJ. With access to leading edge technologies, our Foot Doctors and their medical team can help you manage all of your foot and ankle conditions, including heel pain, ankle sprains, fractures, tendon injuries, toe deformities, fungal toenails, and plantar warts. Call us or request an appointment online today. 

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