Items filtered by date: April 2022

PAD or Peripheral Artery Disease occurs when there is a narrowing or blockage of blood vessels. This disease is caused by a buildup of fat in the arteries, and is also known as atherosclerosis. Though this can happen in any blood vessel, it is more common in the lower extremities. Risks for PAD include aging, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Some symptoms that may be present include pain in the feet or legs with activity that stops with rest, decreased or absent foot pulse, sores or ulcers that do not heal, and cold or numb toes. Beyond damage to one’s feet if left untreated, PAD can lead to a heart attack or stroke. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a podiatrist to measure blood pressure in the ankles via an ankle brachial index (ABI) and compare that to blood pressure in the arms, do possible imaging studies, confirm the diagnosis, and obtain a treatment plan.

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 Clover Podiatry. 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 Camas and Vancouver, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A chronic skin wound fails to heal within a normal time frame or does not heal at all, or has healed and reoccurred. Chronic skin wounds are often a complication of diabetes or certain types of vascular disease, but they may also occur from trauma, surgery, deep burns, infection, skin cancers, and more. A chronic skin wound is a potentially dangerous condition and must be treated by a professional. A podiatrist should be consulted if you develop a chronic skin wound on your feet, ankles, or lower leg. After reviewing your medical history and performing a thorough physical exam, your podiatrist may need to perform and/or analyze different types of lab tests to identify the type of wound and its underlying factors. Podiatrists treat wounds with a variety of methods and procedures depending on their cause and severity and your health. If you have developed a fever or increased pain, or your wound is bleeding or has pus or other discharge, see a podiatrist immediately.

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 one of our podiatrists from Clover Podiatry. Our doctors 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 Camas and Vancouver, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The feet and ankles contain numerous joints that can be affected by several types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis, which has been called “wear and tear” on the joints, can develop slowly and worsen over time. It is caused by the deterioration of the cartilage that sits between the bones and can cause stiffness, pain, loss of flexibility, bone spurs and swelling. Inflammatory arthritis, of which there are several varieties, causes pain, swelling, redness, and/or heat around the joint. The most common form of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis which is an autoimmune condition that attacks healthy cells and can cause long-term damage to the foot and ankle joints. Psoriatic arthritis is an overreaction of the immune system and can contribute to plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy, both extremely painful conditions. Another type of arthritis, one that usually attacks the big toe, is commonly called gout. It is caused by crystals that form inside the joint, producing extreme pain, swelling and redness. If left untreated it could lead to osteoarthritis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for a full diagnosis and options for treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Clover Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Camas and Vancouver, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

People who unexpectedly twist their foot may experience a sprained ankle, which occurs as a result of overstretching the muscles, tendons and ligaments. The symptoms that often accompany a sprained ankle can include bruising, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle. People who have weak ankles may be more susceptible to a sprain. It can help to improve ankle strength by performing specific exercises that are designed for the ankles. Additionally, it is a good idea to do warm up and cool down stretches before and after working out. Research has indicated it is beneficial to lose any extra weight in order to lessen the pressure that is exerted on the ankles. There are several treatment options for sprained ankles, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine which one is the best for you.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Clover Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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