Our Experienced TX Podiatrists Explain the Dangers of Foot Wounds for Patients With PAD
If you have peripheral artery disease (PAD), even a small foot wound can be dangerous. Here, the skilled Texas podiatrists at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists explain why foot wounds are so risky for PAD patients and share prevention tips along with information on what you should do if you have PAD and develop a foot wound. 
Foot Wounds and Patients With PAD
PAD is a circulatory problem that affects many people. This condition causes a person’s arteries to narrow, restricting blood flow to their feet and other extremities. Because of the restricted blood flow associated with PAD, foot wounds are particularly dangerous because of the following:
- Wounds don’t heal easily. The lack of adequate blood flow slows wound healing, making foot wounds more likely to become chronic and increasing the risk of serious complications.
- Wounds have a higher risk of infection. Compromised circulation due to PAD increases the risk of foot wound infection.
- Wounds increase the potential for gangrene. Without prompt treatment, foot wounds in PAD patients can lead to gangrene. Severe cases can lead to the need for amputation.
- Wounds often go unnoticed in patients with diabetes. PAD is often associated with diabetes, a disease that can cause patients to lose sensation in their feet due to nerve damage. As a result, they might not notice sores on their feet until they become festering wounds.
- Wounds impair mobility. The pain of chronic foot wounds can lead to reduced mobility in people with PAD, a reality that can further compromise their overall health and may lead to other complications such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
How to Prevent and Reduce the Risk of Foot Wounds
If you have PAD, taking the following steps can help you reduce the risk of developing foot wounds. However, if you do get a foot wound, these steps can help you catch them early enough to help prevent severe consequences:
- Properly manage PAD. Carefully follow the PAD treatment plan you and your medical doctor agree on to improve your blood circulation and overall health.
- Conduct daily foot exams. To prevent foot injuries, practice good foot hygiene, inspect your feet daily for any signs of injury, avoid walking barefoot, and wear shoes that fit properly.
- See your podiatrist. Visit a podiatrist regularly for frequent foot inspections and monitoring. This is crucial for early detection and management of wounds.
- Get prompt treatment. Seek prompt treatment from a podiatrist for any foot wound to get a proper diagnosis and treatment and help reduce the risk of complications.
Signs of a Foot Wound
Daily foot management can help you avoid developing a foot wound and reduce the risk of infection if you do have one. It’s important to look for the following signs on both feet and ankles that could indicate you have a wound:
- Redness and/or swelling
- Pain
- Skin feels warmer to the touch than nearby skin
- Discharge of pus or other fluid
- Unpleasant smell
- Darkening skin color
- Development of ulceration
- Crusting or scabbing
What to Do if You Have a Foot Wound
It’s important to treat foot wounds as soon as possible. If you have PAD or another underlying condition that puts you at risk of complications from a foot wound and you notice signs or symptoms of one, you should immediately schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Wound Care Prior to Your Appointment
When you schedule your appointment, let the office staff know that you have PAD and have developed a foot wound so they know how critical it is to get you in to see the doctor as soon as possible. While waiting for your appointment, take steps to prevent the wound from getting worse. Important actions to take include the following:
- Clean the wound. Gently clean the wound with mild soap and water. Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or iodine unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional.
- Dress the wound. Cover the wound with a sterile bandage or dressing to keep it clean and protected. Change the dressing regularly to prevent infection.
- Keep the wound dry. Avoid getting the wound wet. If it does get wet, change the dressing immediately.
- Avoid walking on it. If the wound is on the bottom of your foot, don’t walk on it. Keeping weight off the wound will help avoid further injury and promote healing.
- Elevate your foot. If the wound site is swollen, elevate your foot to above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Watch for signs of infection. Be alert to infection indicators, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pain, pus, or a foul odor. If you notice any of these signs, immediately seek medical attention.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
When you go to the podiatrist, be prepared for a thorough examination of your feet and ankles. Your doctor will ask questions about your condition so they can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan focused on protecting the health of your feet.
There are multiple treatment options for different types of foot wounds. Our experienced and caring podiatrists will provide you with individualized recommendations for your specific injury and its severity, taking into account your PAD diagnosis and other relevant risk factors.
Follow Your Podiatrist’s Medical Advice
It’s important to follow your foot doctor’s instructions for wound care, medication, and any other recommended treatments. These may include antibiotics, specialized dressings, or other interventions based on your particular needs. Once your wound has healed, be sure to continue following appropriate preventive measures to help avoid future foot wounds.