Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, develops when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. Fatty deposits inside these blood vessels are usually responsible for this narrowing. Without enough oxygen-rich blood, the feet may become painful and slow to heal. Signs include cramping in the calves when walking, cold feet, and a weak pulse in the lower legs. The skin may look pale, shiny, or bluish. Toenails can grow slowly, and hair on the feet or legs may decrease. As the condition advances, some patients also develop numbness or pain while resting.

Several factors raise the risk of developing PAD. Smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure are major concerns. High cholesterol and older age can also increase risk. Because reduced circulation limits healing, a small blister or cut can become a serious wound. An untreated wound may develop an infection, tissue damage, or limb loss. People with diabetes face added danger because nerve damage can make an injury difficult to feel. Changes should not be ignored, even when they seem minor. A sore that does not heal, a change in skin color, or sudden foot pain requires prompt medical attention.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for circulation problems and check the skin, nails, and pulse. The examination can also identify wounds that require careful treatment. Tests that compare blood pressure at the ankle and arm can help measure blood flow. A podiatrist can clean and protect wounds, remove damaged tissue, and reduce pressure on sore areas. Regular foot examinations can help detect problems before they become severe. A medical team approach can help manage PAD and protect foot health. In severe cases, procedures or surgery may be considered to improve circulation. 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.

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 Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho. our doctor 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 office located in Lewiston, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It usually develops between the toes, but it can also affect the bottoms and sides of the feet. The infection spreads through contact with fungus on an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Walking barefoot in locker rooms, public pools, or shared shower areas can increase exposure. Warm, moist feet can also create conditions that allow the fungus to grow. Symptoms can include itching, redness, and discomfort. These symptoms can affect more than the skin’s appearance and can make standing or walking uncomfortable.

A podiatrist can evaluate the skin and determine whether the changes are consistent with athlete’s foot or another foot condition. A careful examination can help identify the location and severity of the infection. Treatment from a podiatrist focuses on controlling the fungal infection and protecting the affected skin. Depending on the findings, care can include an appropriate antifungal medication, monitoring the skin for changes, and guidance on preventing the infection from spreading. A podiatrist can also look for problems that could make the skin more vulnerable to irritation or infection. This is especially important when cracking or other skin changes are present. Prompt attention can help reduce discomfort and support healthier skin.

Athlete’s foot can sometimes resemble other conditions that cause redness, scaling, or irritation. Because the appearance of a foot problem does not always reveal its cause, a proper evaluation is important before choosing treatment. A podiatrist can also assess whether the infection has affected other areas of the foot and whether additional care is appropriate. Signs like persistent itching, painful cracks, or spreading redness should not be ignored. Getting podiatric care can help identify the cause of symptoms and create a treatment plan based on the condition of the feet. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho.  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 Lewiston, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses and the entire sole makes contact with the ground. This condition can appear from childhood or develop due to various factors. Flat foot surgery is a procedure designed to correct this issue by reconstructing the structure of the foot and creating a supportive arch. The goal is to improve alignment, reduce pain, and restore proper function. Understanding the condition and surgical options can help individuals make informed decisions about their care.

Symptoms of flat feet may include foot pain, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing or walking for extended periods of time. Some individuals experience fatigue in the feet or legs due to improper weight distribution. Causes of flat feet can include genetics, trauma, or medical conditions like diabetes that affect nerve function and tissue health. The lack of arch support can place strain on muscles and ligaments, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility. These symptoms may worsen without proper treatment.

Flat foot surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments do not provide relief. The procedure involves reconstructing the foot to create a stable and supportive arch. This may include repairing tendons, repositioning bones, or using implants to support the structure. The exact approach depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Risk factors for this type of foot surgery include poor overall health, smoking, and conditions that affect healing, such as diabetes.

Recovery from flat foot surgery requires time, rest, and guided rehabilitation to restore strength and flexibility. Supportive footwear and follow-up care are essential for long-term success. Addressing flat feet can improve comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. If you have flat feet and are considering surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Richard M. Allen, DPM of Idaho. our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition that affects the cuboid bone, which is located on the outer side of the midfoot. This small bone plays an important role in maintaining foot stability and supporting normal walking mechanics. Cuboid syndrome occurs when the bone becomes partially displaced or misaligned, often due to excessive strain or sudden injury. This disruption can interfere with normal joint movement and lead to discomfort in the lateral midfoot. The condition is often seen in athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive weight-bearing activities.

The symptoms of cuboid syndrome typically include pain along the outer midfoot, especially during walking or standing. Patients may also notice swelling, tenderness, and a feeling of weakness in the foot. In some cases, the pain may worsen with push-off movements or side-to-side motion. Difficulty walking is a common concern, as the discomfort can limit mobility and affect balance. These symptoms can resemble other foot injuries, which makes accurate identification important for proper care.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to the development of cuboid syndrome. A common cause is an ankle sprain that places stress on the surrounding structures, leading to cuboid misalignment. Repetitive strain from running, jumping, or prolonged standing can also increase the risk. Wearing poor footwear that lacks proper support may contribute to uneven pressure on the foot. Individuals with high arches or abnormal foot mechanics may be more prone to this condition due to altered weight distribution.

Managing cuboid syndrome involves addressing both the symptoms and the underlying cause. Rest, wearing supportive footwear, and targeted therapies can help reduce pain and improve foot function. Early recognition and appropriate care are essential to prevent ongoing discomfort and mobility issues. Taking steps to protect the midfoot can support long-term foot health. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.  

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Richard M. Allen, DPM from Idaho. our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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