P Conditions
Peripheral Vascular Disease-Indianapolis, IN
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a disease of the arteries that can affect the extremities of the body. Plaque from fatty materials, combined with calcium and other substances, will build up on the sides of the arteries making it difficult or impossible for blood to pass through. Diabetes, injuries, or infections are other factors that can contribute to the narrowing or weakening of the arteries. Not all individuals who have PVD are symptomatic. Those who do experience symptoms notice the following indicators:
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Pain throughout the leg and sometimes the foot
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Pain while walking
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Achy pain in the feet or toes while at rest
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Sores on feet that do not heal
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Pale, bluish, or dark reddish foot color
To combat PVD, receive treatment for any underlying conditions you may have, such as diabetes. Begin a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, staying away from foods that have unhealthy cholesterol, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight. Smoking hardens the arteries so it is important to try and quit. Keep a close eye on blood pressure and cholesterol levels; you may need to take a prescription medication to keep these under control. These changes can correct PVD. In extreme cases, an angioplasty (balloon) surgery may be necessary.
Plantar Fasciitis-Indianapolis, IN
There are many possible sources for heel pain but the most common is plantar fasciitis. Heel pain from plantar fasciitis occurs when the tissue that stretches between the heels to the toes (the fascia) becomes inflamed. People with arch issues are more prone to plantar fasciitis pain. Individuals who wear non-supportive shoes or who work on hard surfaces frequently can have the following symptoms:
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Pain on the arch of the foot
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Pain on the heel
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Pain that hurts more upon rising
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Pain that increases over months
Treatment of plantar fasciitis is moderately easy and the condition can begin to correct itself when taking the proper steps. Always wear supportive shoes and do not go barefoot. Adding padding to your shoes can cushion the feet and soften the impact of walking. Rest your feet when possible and take an NSAID like ibuprofen to relieve the pain. Stretching exercises for the calf help to relieve the pain in the foot. If those techniques do not work, visit a podiatrist who can provide you with a night splint and customized orthotic devices. Physical therapy, in addition to the stretching exercises, can also be beneficial. Only in rare cases is surgery needed for plantar fasciitis.