Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition akin to coronary artery disease and carotid artery disease. It affects arteries outside the heart and brain, particularly in the legs and feet. Peripheral artery disease involves the accumulation of fatty deposits on the inner linings of artery walls, narrowing the arteries and impeding blood flow. This reduction in blood circulation causes pain during activities such as walking, in addition to slow healing foot wounds, temperature disparities between feet, and potential development of gangrene. Severe cases may necessitate removal of the affected toe, foot, or leg. Individuals with diabetes face an elevated risk of PAD, which is further heightened by additional factors, including being overweight or obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and high blood pressure. In addition, those with high LDL cholesterol, a family history of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, or a previous history of coronary artery disease or stroke are at higher risk of developing PAD. Early detection and intervention along with lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some instances, surgical procedures, can effectively manage PAD. If you have symptoms or risk factors of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who is specially trained to manage this condition. 

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 Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. 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 Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

In the realm of footwear, the quest for the perfect fit begins with precision in measurement, and the venerable Brannock device stands as an iconic ally in this pursuit. It has been known to accurately measure foot size, which is vital to buying shoes that fit correctly. Wearing shoes that are either too snug or excessively loose can result in discomfort as well as various foot issues. Prolonged use of ill-fitting shoes can contribute to the development of toe deformities, corns, and calluses. Plus, with age, your feet undergo slight alterations in both length and width. Therefore, it becomes necessary to regularly measure your feet, especially if your once-comfortable shoes are now causing foot problems. Developed in the early 20th century, the Brannock device provides a comprehensive assessment of your foot’s dimensions. Start by placing the heel snugly against the back of the device and spreading the toes naturally along its width. This is how accurate foot measurements are taken. If you are having trouble determining your shoe size, or are experiencing foot pain caused by your shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Thick toenails are a prevalent issue among the older adults, often signifying underlying health problems that require intervention. Prompt attention is important, as delayed treatment can result in excessively brittle nails. Various factors contribute to the development of thick toenails. Fungal nail infections, which affect nearly 10 percent of the U.S. population, are a leading cause. Dermatophytes, candida, or non-dermatophytic molds often trigger these infections. Nail injuries, poor foot hygiene, and compromised immune systems can make the situation worse. Nail psoriasis, a common skin condition, presents another potential cause of thick toenails. Distinctive symptoms include pitting, ridging, and abnormal contours. Additionally, diabetes, toe injuries, yellow nail syndrome, and the natural aging process can contribute to the thickening of toenails. Treatment options include prescribed antifungal medications, both oral and topical, and, in severe cases, surgical or chemical nail removal. Recognizing the diverse causes of thick toenails enables individuals to seek appropriate podiatric care. For help with thickened toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and a discussion of treatment options. 

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent foot ailment, reveals itself as a condition marked by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. Characterized by stabbing pain, particularly during the initial steps after awakening or prolonged periods of inactivity, plantar fasciitis often affects the heel and sole. The condition typically results from overuse, where repetitive stress on the plantar fascia leads to microtears and inflammation. While commonly associated with athletes, plantar fasciitis can affect individuals from various walks of life, particularly those with jobs that require prolonged standing. Having tight calf muscles or flat feet and wearing inadequate footwear may contribute to increased vulnerability. Recognizing plantar fasciitis's early signs, such as localized pain and stiffness, enables timely intervention. If you have heel pain, it may be indicative of plantar fasciitis. If this applies to you, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat this condition.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.