The Feet and Peripheral Vascular Disease

“Peripheral Vascular Disease” is an umbrella term for problems affecting the circulation, for example Diabetes, in the lower limb.
As we get older, we all experience €˜hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis) and narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis). Narrowing of the arteries is a concern for podiatrists; as this affects blood pressure and the demand for an adequate blood supply to the body. Advanced narrowing of the arteries can result from poor diet choices (high in cholesterol, fatty foods) and inflammation, of which smoking can be a factor.
Podiatrists are visually aware of tell tale signs in the lower limb; if there are symptoms of PVD. As there is oxygen deprivation, the available blood supply will be spared for vital functions such as nerve innervations and muscle contraction to allow movement required for walking. Nutrients and oxygen are required for hair and nail growth which will be reduced with PVD, leaving the lower limb with little or no hair, nails will take a long time to grow and skin will become dry and devitalized.
Importantly, wound healing can also be compromised due to an insufficient blood supply, required in wound healing. If you suffer from poor circulation it is important to;
23 See a Doctor / specialist vascular surgeon to access your wellbeing and treat you accordingly; surgery to remove any blockages in the arteries or medication to improve your cholesterol
24 See a nutritionist who help you improve your diet which will not lead to fatty deposits building up in your arteries
25 Stop smoking which inflames your arteries
26 Exercise regularly
27 If you have a cut on your body, apply an antiseptic and plaster over the top to avoid infection.
Podiatry & ‘PVD’
As wound healing is slower due to poor circulation, extra care has to be taken to a cut/wound to prevent any further breakdown. It is also important to prevent tissue breakdown:
17 Avoid walking barefoot in the house; wear slippers
18 Check your footwear is well fitted to avoid blisters and pressure areas
19 If you are wearing new shoes for the first time, take some plasters out with you, in case the shoes do give you blisters €“ very common at the heel area
20 See a podiatrist routinely to cut toe nails with may be difficult to manage, remove for corns and hard skin and check for other foot conditions.
Contact us on 04 3435390 for a foot / lower limb assessment and foot care advice and help.