- January 27, 2021
- Posted by: cmcdonald
- Categories: PAD Video, Video Library
Q: Why is foot health so important when you have PAD?
A: When you have diabetes, chronic kidney disease, a history of smoking, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease, or if you are elderly, all of which are risk factors for Peripheral Arterial Disease, it is extremely important that you prioritize foot health.
In the scenario with diabetes, foot health is even more magnified. You may have neuropathy and may not know if you have a wound on your foot because you don’t have any sensation or the sensation is reduced.
For anybody who has those risk factors, it is extremely important that you, somebody you care about, and a healthcare provider, such as a podiatrist, regularly check your feet to identify problems that may predispose you to develop wounds. If you develop hammertoes or other foot deformities, the appropriate orthotics can be administered and you can avoid getting wounds or identify wounds early on.
Along those lines, a podiatrist is extremely important to provide appropriate nail care. When you provide your own nail care, you can cause a wound, which then can progress if you have blockages of those arteries. Foot care is paramount to preventing major amputation.
More videos from the interview with Dr. Rundback of the NJ Endovascular & Amputation Prevention as he explains the importance of foot health when you have Peripheral Arterial Disease:
- How common is it for patients to have non-healing foot wounds or leg pain with PAD?
- How does PAD affect your life?
- Why is it so important to treat PAD?
- Does American Endovascular offer any other consultation options if patients do not want to come into the office?
- Why is it important to have procedures done in an outpatient center?