Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, reduces blood flow to the lower limbs, limiting the oxygen and nutrients needed to keep skin healthy. In the feet and ankles, this often leads to dryness, thinning, and increased sensitivity. Skin may appear shiny, pale, or cool to the touch, and hair growth can diminish. Even minor cuts or pressure areas may heal slowly because circulation is impaired. Over time, poor blood supply increases the risk of skin breakdown, ulcers, and infection, especially when combined with reduced sensation. Color changes, cracking, or persistent redness should not be ignored, as they may signal worsening circulation. Wearing proper footwear, daily skin checks, and prompt care of small injuries are essential for protection. If changes in foot or ankle skin are noticed, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper 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 one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot Clinic. Our doctors 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 offices located in Bend and Redmond, OR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal toenail infections develop when microscopic fungi enter small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin and slowly multiply in the warm, moist environment inside shoes. Several distinct types affect toenails. A distal subungual infection is the most common. It begins at the tip or sides, causing yellow or white streaks and thickening beneath the nail. White superficial infection involves the surface layers, producing chalky patches that make the nail rough and crumbly. Proximal subungual infection starts near the cuticle and spreads outward. It is sometimes linked with weakened immunity or prior injury. Yeast-related infections may inflame the surrounding tissue and loosen the nail from its bed. A podiatrist confirms the diagnosis using nail samples and determines the specific organism before prescribing medical antifungal therapy, nail procedures, or advanced management for damaged nails. If you have a fungal toenail infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bend and Redmond, OR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe fractures are breaks or cracks in one or more of the small bones of the toes, often resulting from trauma, stubbing, dropping a heavy object on it, or sports injuries. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and sometimes visible deformity of the toe. Risk factors that increase the likelihood of toe fractures include participating in high-impact activities, having weak bones, or wearing improper footwear that does not protect the toes. Untreated fractures can lead to chronic pain, joint stiffness, or improper healing. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose toe fractures, provide proper immobilization, recommend pain management, and create a treatment plan to ensure correct healing. If you think you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions that are right for you.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bend and Redmond, OR . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.