Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, affects the blood vessels that carry blood to the legs and feet. It develops when arteries in the legs become narrowed, reducing the amount of blood that reaches nearby tissues. A common cause is atherosclerosis, which occurs when fatty material called plaque builds up along artery walls. Reduced circulation means the muscles may not receive enough blood and oxygen during activity. As PAD becomes more severe, circulation can remain limited even while a person is resting. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can increase the risk of developing PAD.

Poor circulation from PAD can cause noticeable symptoms in the lower legs and feet. Pain, aching, or burning may occur during walking or exercise and improve after several minutes of rest. Some people develop numbness in the legs or feet while resting. The affected foot may also feel cool or appear pale. As the condition progresses, pain may begin with less activity and eventually occur at rest. Severe PAD can cause slow-healing sores on the feet or toes. Skin discoloration and changes in the toenails may also develop. These symptoms are important because reduced circulation can make it harder for damaged tissues to heal properly.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for signs that may be associated with poor circulation and determine when further medical evaluation is necessary. An examination may reveal a weak pulse, skin changes, or slow-healing sores. PAD can be evaluated with tests that compare blood pressure in the arms and legs or examine blood flow through the arteries. Because severe PAD can lead to serious complications, changes such as new foot sores should not be ignored. A foot that suddenly becomes cool, pale, or numb also requires medical attention. If poor circulation is causing persistent foot pain or noticeable changes in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact John Jachimiak, DPM of Boulder County Foot & Ankle. our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that can affect anyone, not just athletes. The fungus grows well in warm, damp places and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Public showers, locker-room floors, and pool areas can increase exposure. Feet that remain sweaty inside tight shoes can also create conditions that allow the fungus to grow. Symptoms include itching, redness, and peeling skin. Some patients develop burning or stinging, while others notice cracks between the toes. The infection can also cause blisters or thick, scaly skin on the soles and sides of the feet.

Because athlete’s foot spreads easily, an infection can pass to other people or reach other areas of the body. Scratching an infected foot and then touching another area can transfer the fungus. A podiatrist can examine the affected skin and determine whether the problem is athlete’s foot or another condition with similar symptoms. When the diagnosis is uncertain, the podiatrist can take a small skin scraping for testing. This can help confirm whether fungus is present. A podiatric evaluation is especially important when the skin is badly cracked, painful, or showing signs of another infection.

A podiatrist can recommend treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. Treatment can help clear the fungus, reduce uncomfortable symptoms, and lower the chance of spreading it. The podiatrist can also check the toenails because fungal infections can sometimes affect both the skin and nails. Patients can receive guidance on keeping the feet dry and reducing future exposure to fungus. This includes choosing breathable shoes, changing damp socks, and protecting the feet in shared wet areas. Follow-up care can help determine whether the infection has cleared or requires a different treatment approach. If you have developed an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact John Jachimiak, DPM from Boulder County Foot & Ankle.  our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Exercise plays an important role in keeping the feet strong, flexible, and prepared for everyday movement. The feet support the body when standing and walking, so maintaining their health can enhance mobility. Walking is an effective exercise for the feet because each step moves the foot through its natural range of motion. The movement begins when the heel reaches the ground and continues as the toes push the body forward. Walking also provides benefits beyond foot health by supporting circulation and muscle tone. Keeping the feet active may also help reduce the risk of certain foot injuries.

Flexibility and resistance exercises can also contribute to foot health. Flexibility exercises help maintain movement and reduce stiffness, which can become more noticeable with age. Research suggests that flexibility can still improve as people grow older. Resistance exercises work differently by making muscles move against added weight or force. This type of activity strengthens muscles, allowing them to provide greater support and protection for the feet. Strong and flexible feet are important for maintaining normal movement during exercise and other physical activities. However, foot pain during activity should not be ignored. Certain health problems or structural changes in the feet can affect a person’s ability to exercise comfortably.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot health and determine whether pain or structural problems may be affecting movement during exercise. This evaluation can be especially important for people with arthritis or structural foot problems before beginning certain physical activities. A podiatrist can assess foot function and identify problems that may interfere with comfortable movement. Professional podiatry care can also help determine which types of activity are appropriate, based on individual foot health and physical needs. Maintaining healthy feet can make it easier to remain active and support long-term mobility. If foot pain or stiffness is making exercise or everyday movement difficult, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact John Jachimiak, DPM from Boulder County Foot & Ankle. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Achilles tendon injuries affect the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon helps the foot push off the ground while walking, running, or jumping. An injury can happen when the tendon is suddenly stressed or repeatedly strained. Achilles tendon problems include irritation, small tears, and a complete rupture, which means the tendon tears all the way through. Symptoms can include pain near the heel, swelling, and difficulty moving the foot normally. A sudden injury can also cause a popping or snapping feeling. People with an Achilles tendon injury may have trouble pushing off the foot or standing on their toes.

A podiatrist can evaluate an Achilles tendon injury by reviewing how the injury happened and examining the foot, ankle, and lower leg. The evaluation can include checking for swelling, tenderness, and changes in movement. A podiatrist can also assess how the tendon functions when the foot and ankle move. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Care can include protecting the injured tendon, using support to limit movement, and guiding a gradual return to normal activity. A podiatrist can explain the available treatment options and monitor the tendon as it heals. Proper treatment is important because returning to demanding activities too quickly can place additional stress on the injured tendon.

Achilles tendon injuries can make walking, exercise, and other activities difficult. A complete tendon tear can cause significant weakness and should be evaluated promptly. Pain that continues, swelling near the heel, or difficulty pushing off the foot can also indicate that the tendon needs professional evaluation. A podiatrist can determine the severity of the injury and develop a treatment plan based on your symptoms and examination. Early evaluation can help protect the tendon and support a safer recovery. If you have sustained an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact John Jachimiak, DPM of Boulder County Foot & Ankle. 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 Boulder, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.