Peripheral Artery Disease (P.A.D.) is a common yet often overlooked circulatory condition that affects millions of people, especially those over the age of 50. It occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs and feet. But what causes these arteries to narrow in the first place? Two of the biggest culprits are high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Understanding how these factors contribute to P.A.D. can empower you to take proactive steps in preserving your vascular health.
At Capital Foot Care, our team of expert podiatrists is committed to helping patients detect and manage early signs of P.A.D. through comprehensive care and targeted treatment options.
Understanding the Risk Factors
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, forces your heart to work harder to pump blood through the body. Over time, this pressure damages the arterial walls, causing them to stiffen or narrow. When combined with high cholesterol, which leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, the risk of blockages increases significantly. These narrowed arteries limit the oxygen-rich blood that your lower extremities rely on, leading to symptoms such as cramping, numbness, and slow-healing wounds.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Some early signs of Peripheral Artery Disease include:
- Painful cramping in your legs, especially during walking or climbing stairs
- Numbness or weakness in the legs or feet
- Coldness in one leg or foot compared to the other
- Slow or non-healing sores on your feet or toes
- Discoloration or shiny skin on the legs
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a vascular podiatrist near you.
How Capital Foot Care Can Help
At Capital Foot Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions linked to poor circulation, including Peripheral Artery Disease. We understand that vascular health is closely tied to chronic conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol. That’s why our approach is multidisciplinary, focusing on treating the root cause, not just the symptoms.
We offer the following services:
- Peripheral Artery Disease (P.A.D.) Evaluation and Management
- Advanced Wound Care for slow-healing sores and ulcers
- Diabetic Foot Care to prevent complications from poor circulation
- In-Office Surgical Procedures for advanced conditions
- Routine Foot Care to maintain overall foot health
- Sports Medicine support for active patients with vascular conditions
Our experienced podiatrists—Dr. Muhammad A. Khalid, DPM, Dr. Fritz-Andre Duterlein, and Dr. Herman Zarate—bring years of knowledge and compassionate care to every patient we serve. We’re proud to be a trusted name in Capital Foot Care Maryland and Washington, DC.
Prevention Is Key
Managing high blood pressure and cholesterol is one of the most effective ways to prevent or slow the progression of P.A.D. Regular check-ups with a vascular podiatrist, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can greatly improve your circulation and reduce your risk of complications.
Here’s what you can do today:
- Monitor and control your blood pressure and cholesterol
- Maintain a healthy diet low in saturated fats and sodium
- Stay physically active with regular low-impact exercise
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
- Schedule regular foot and vascular evaluations
Trust Capital Foot Care With Your Vascular Health
Peripheral Artery Disease can be serious—but with proper care, it’s manageable. At Capital Foot Care, we offer cutting-edge treatment and compassionate guidance to help you regain control of your health. Whether you’re seeking relief from foot discomfort or a comprehensive P.A.D. treatment plan, our team is here for you.
Call 301-927-FOOT (3668)
Email [email protected]
Visit Capital Foot Care to book your consultation today.
