What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD), also called peripheral arterial disease (PVD), is a vascular condition where narrowed or blocked arteries—usually caused by plaque buildup (atherosclerosis)—reduce blood flow to the legs and feet.

Why Does PAD Matter for Your Feet?

When blood flow is restricted, your feet, toes, and lower legs receive less oxygen and vital nutrients. This poor circulation can lead to complications ranging from intermittent pain to non-healing wounds that increase the risk of infection and severe foot problems.

Common Signs and Symptoms in the Feet

Claudication – pain, cramping, or tiredness in the calves, thighs, or feet during activity that improves with rest
Rest pain – persistent aching or burning in the feet or toes while resting or sleeping, often a sign of advanced PAD
Non-healing wounds or ulcers – especially on toes or heels; wounds that fail to heal after 8–12 weeks may be PAD-related
Skin changes – shiny or smooth skin, pale or bluish discoloration, slow-growing or brittle toenails, or hair loss on legs and feet
Reduced pulse – weak or absent pulse in the foot or ankle area

What Causes PAD?

The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in artery walls that restricts blood flow. Risk factors include:

Smoking
Diabetes
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Age, especially over 50

Can Peripheral Artery Disease Be Reversed?

While PAD cannot usually be fully reversed, its progression can be slowed and symptoms improved through treatment:

Lifestyle changes – quitting smoking, eating healthy, exercising, and managing weight
Medications – cholesterol-lowering statins, blood pressure control medications, and drugs to improve circulation
Procedures – in advanced cases, revascularization, angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery may be needed to restore blood flow

What Kind of Doctor Treats PAD?

PAD is often diagnosed by a podiatrist and managed by vascular specialists such as:

Vascular surgeons
Interventional cardiologists or radiologists
Board-certified podiatrists – especially when PAD affects wound healing, ulcers, rest pain, or diabetic foot conditions

When to See a Foot or Podiatry Specialist

Seek evaluation if you experience:

Heel pain or foot pain while walking or at rest
Pain in your feet or toes that disrupts sleep
Persistent or slow-healing ulcers on toes or heels
Cold, discolored skin or weak pulse in your feet

Early diagnosis is key. A podiatrist can help detect PAD and provide targeted foot care to prevent complications.

Your Total Foot Care Specialist Can Help

At Your Total Foot Care Specialist, our team of board-certified podiatrists offers advanced diagnostics and comprehensive care for foot circulation problems. We provide: