Peripheral arterial disease, or PAD, occurs when blood vessels in the legs and feet become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow. The most common cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, restricting circulation. This lack of blood flow affects the feet by causing pain, cramping, or fatigue, especially during walking or physical activity, a condition known as claudication. In severe cases, PAD can lead to non-healing sores or ulcers on the feet and toes, and in extreme cases, gangrene. Symptoms of PAD in the feet include coldness, a bluish tint, or slow-healing wounds. Since diabetes and smoking increase the risk of PAD, managing these conditions is essential. If you have peripheral artery disease it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help monitor foot health, and provide care to prevent further damage.

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 Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. 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 Covington, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s toe, also known as Greek foot, is a condition where the second toe is longer than the big toe. While it is often a benign anatomical variation, it can lead to discomfort and pain due to altered foot mechanics. Individuals with Morton’s toe may experience metatarsalgia, which is pain in the ball of the foot, as well as calluses, bunions, and discomfort while walking or standing. Treatment typically begins with conservative measures, such as wearing supportive footwear, using orthotic inserts, and practicing foot stretches. However, if pain persists or worsens, it is important to consult a podiatrist. This type of doctor may recommend more advanced treatments, including targeted exercises or, in severe cases, surgery to alleviate pain and correct alignment issues. If you suspect you have Morton’s toe and are experiencing discomfort, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough assessment and tailored treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM of Practice. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Plantar heel pain, often associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis, is a common issue that can significantly impact daily activities. It typically manifests as a sharp pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting. This discomfort can result from several factors, including overuse, wearing improper footwear, obesity, and tight calf muscles. Activities that put excessive strain on the heel, such as running or standing for long periods of time can worsen the condition. Treatment options vary, but they often include exercises that can strengthen the foot and improve flexibility. Custom orthotics may also be recommended to provide support and distribute pressure evenly. If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, it is important to seek professional help. It is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet comfortably.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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

Trench foot is a condition that arises when the feet are exposed to cold, damp environments for prolonged periods. Historically associated with soldiers in World War I, it can occur in anyone who spends extended time in wet conditions. The primary cause is the combination of cold temperatures and moisture, which leads to reduced blood flow and tissue damage. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and a tingling sensation in the feet. As the condition progresses, blisters may form, and the skin can become numb. If left untreated, trench foot can result in severe complications, including infection or even tissue death. Awareness of this condition is vital, especially for people working in wet and cold environments. If you have this foot condition, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can treat trench foot, and guide you on effective prevention methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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