Peripheral artery disease, often called PAD, occurs when arteries become narrowed and reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. This limits oxygen delivery to tissues, which can lead to pain, especially during walking, known as claudication. Some people may also notice cold feet, skin color changes, or slower nail and hair growth. In more advanced cases, wounds on the feet may heal very slowly or not at all, increasing the risk of infection. Because the feet are far from the heart, they are especially vulnerable to poor circulation. Early detection is important to help prevent serious complications. A podiatrist can check circulation, monitor skin health, and help manage foot-related risks of PAD through routine care and guidance. They also work with other providers as needed. If you have leg pain with walking or slow-healing foot wounds, it is suggested that you seek care from 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 Mark Poplawski, DPM from Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. 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 Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinitis involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It commonly develops from overuse, repetitive stress, or sudden increases in physical activity. Tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and poor training habits can also contribute to this condition. Risk factors include aging, flat feet, high arches, and participation in high impact sports. Symptoms often include pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, swelling, and discomfort that worsens with activity. A podiatrist can evaluate the tendon, recommend stretching and strengthening programs, and provide treatment to reduce inflammation and prevent further injury. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Mark Poplawski, DPM of Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Flat feet is a condition where the arch of the foot is absent or significantly lowered, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. Flat feet can develop due to genetics, injury, aging, or weakening of the tendons that support the arch. Symptoms include foot pain, fatigue, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing or walking for long periods of time. Risk factors include obesity, repetitive strain, and certain medical conditions that affect connective tissue. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, assess gait, and provide supportive treatments. Among them are custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, and proper footwear guidance. If you have discomfort from flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Mark Poplawski, DPM from Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Down syndrome can affect the feet in several ways, often leading to pain and difficulty with walking. Many people with this condition have flat feet, which means the arch is low or absent, causing the foot to roll inward and affect balance. The front of the foot may also be wider than average, increasing the risk of a bunion, a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. Skin problems like calluses and dry or cracked skin are also common and can become painful. Toenail issues, including fungal or ingrown nails, may develop as well. Many of these changes can make it harder to find properly fitting shoes and may lead to ongoing foot pain. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, manage skin and nail conditions, and provide custom orthotic devices to improve alignment and support. If you or a loved one have foot pain resulting from Down syndrome, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Mark Poplawski, DPM from Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.