Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when blood flow to the feet is restricted due to narrowed arteries. Reduced circulation often causes discomfort while walking, foot fatigue, or slow-healing sores on the toes or heels. A podiatrist can perform diagnostic tests, such as the ankle-brachial index, which compares blood pressure in the ankle to that in the arm to detect an arterial blockage. Additional imaging, like a Doppler ultrasound, can evaluate the severity of reduced blood flow in the foot and ankle. Without proper treatment, PAD can lead to tissue damage or, in severe cases, limb loss. Early diagnosis is vital to prevent these serious complications and preserve mobility. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

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 out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. 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 Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma develops when a nerve between the toes, most often the third and fourth, becomes thickened and irritated. This condition can cause sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, often described as standing on a pebble or having a wrinkle in the sock. Wearing tight shoes, high heels, or repetitive stress from running or other impact activities can worsen the problem. Relief often begins with simple changes such as wearing wider shoes, avoiding high heels, and using cushioned pads or orthotics to reduce pressure on the affected nerve. When discomfort persists, treatments like anti-inflammatory therapy, corticosteroid injections, or specialized procedures may be used to ease pain and restore comfort. If you frequently experience tingling, numbness, or pain in the front of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of out podiatrists of Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Blisters on the feet are often caused by friction, pressure, or irritation. Friction blisters, the most frequent type, typically form when ill-fitting shoes rub against the skin, leading to the buildup of fluid between layers of skin. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and the formation of a small, raised bubble filled with clear fluid. They can be painful, especially while walking or standing. Common causes of blisters include wearing new shoes, prolonged walking, or activities that cause repetitive rubbing, such as running. Excessive moisture or sweaty feet can also contribute to blister formation. A podiatrist can help by assessing the severity of the blister and offering safe and sterile wound care. If a blister is infected or causing persistent pain, a podiatrist may recommend drainage, dressing techniques, or the use of specialized footwear to prevent further irritation. Custom orthotics or padding may also be suggested to reduce friction. If you frequently develop foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of out podiatrists of Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors and often result from changes in balance, muscle strength, vision, or hearing. Chronic conditions and medication side effects can also affect coordination and stability. Additionally, household hazards like loose rugs or poor lighting increase the risk. Preventing falls starts with wearing supportive, non-slip shoes, improving home lighting, and engaging in exercises that build strength and balance. Regular foot care also plays an important role in stability and confidence while walking. A podiatrist can evaluate foot health, recommend proper footwear, and address pain or mobility issues that contribute to falls. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional falls prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of out podiatrists from Alta Ridge Foot Specialist. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Mars Hill, Spruce Pine, and Boone, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.