Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a circulatory condition that develops when arteries become narrowed by fatty deposits, reducing blood flow to the legs and feet. Because healthy circulation delivers oxygen to muscles and skin, reduced blood supply can affect walking comfort and wound healing. One common symptom is pain while walking that improves with rest, a pattern known as claudication. Some people also experience leg cramps or numbness in their feet. Recognizing these warning signs early is important because PAD can increase the risk of serious circulation problems.

Atherosclerosis, which causes plaque to build up inside arteries, is the most common cause of PAD. Smoking damages blood vessels and greatly increases the risk of developing this condition. Other risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Age and family history can also contribute. People with diabetes may face additional concerns because nerve damage can make foot injuries harder to notice. When circulation is reduced, even a small blister or cut may heal slowly and become vulnerable to infection.

Changes in foot appearance can provide further clues that circulation needs attention. The skin may look pale, bluish, or unusually shiny, while toenails may grow more slowly. Feet may feel colder than usual, and numbness or weakness can develop. In advanced cases, pain may occur even while resting, or sores may fail to heal. Sudden severe foot pain with coldness, discoloration, or loss of sensation requires emergency medical care because it may signal an acute blockage.

A podiatrist examines your feet, checks pulses, and evaluates wounds. An ankle-brachial index or vascular imaging may help identify reduced blood flow. Treatment options include smoking cessation, prescribed medication, and recommendations for protective footwear. If you have symptoms of PAD, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate 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 Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. 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 Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe occurs when one of the bones in a toe cracks or breaks. Stubbing a toe against furniture or dropping a heavy object on the foot can cause this injury. The big toe is important because it helps support body weight and provides balance while walking. A fracture can cause immediate pain, swelling, and bruising. The injured toe may also become difficult to move. Some patients notice discomfort when standing or putting pressure on the foot. Even a small break can interfere with daily activities and make shoes uncomfortable.

The seriousness of a broken toe depends on the location of the fracture and whether the bones remain aligned. When the broken pieces stay in place, healing is usually more straightforward. A toe that looks crooked may indicate that the bones have shifted. Most toe fractures heal in about four to six weeks, although soreness can last longer. Stiffness may continue after the bone heals, particularly when the break involves a joint. Returning to sports or demanding work too soon can cause discomfort. Persistent swelling or pain deserves evaluation, especially when recovery is not progressing as expected.

A podiatrist can examine the injured toe and use X-rays to identify the break and check bone alignment. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. For a stable fracture, a podiatrist can recommend a stiff-soled shoe or a protective walking shoe to limit painful movement. Shoes with a wide toe box can reduce pressure on the injured area. Follow-up appointments can help assess healing when a fracture is serious or symptoms continue. A podiatrist can also guide a safe return to work and exercise based on comfort and recovery. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Toenail fungus, medically called onychomycosis, is an infection that can change the color, thickness, and texture of a toenail. It develops when fungi enter the nail through small cracks or openings around the nail. Several types of fungi can cause an infection, including dermatophytes, molds, and yeast. An infected nail may become yellow, white, or brown. It can also become thick, brittle, or separated from the nail bed. Early treatment can help prevent the infection from becoming more difficult to manage.

Dermatophytes are the most common cause of toenail fungus. These fungi feed on keratin, which is found in nails and skin. A dermatophyte infection often causes thickened nails with yellow or white discoloration. Mold can also infect toenails, particularly when the nail has been damaged. Mold infections may cause unusual colors and changes in nail texture. Yeast infections are less common, but can affect damaged nails. The nail may become discolored, thick, or distorted. Different infections can look similar, so appearance alone may not identify the exact cause.

Several risk factors can increase the chances of developing toenail fungus. Warm, damp environments allow fungi to grow easily. Wearing sweaty shoes, walking barefoot in communal areas, or having a previous nail injury can increase exposure. Older adults may also face greater risk because toenails grow more slowly. A podiatrist can examine the nail and may collect a sample for testing when needed. Treatment can then be selected based on the infection and its severity.

Treatment may involve prescription medication, topical therapy, or other options recommended by your podiatrist. Thickened portions of the nail may be trimmed or reduced to improve treatment access. Keeping feet clean and dry can also help protect healthy nails. Toenail fungus can take time to clear because nails grow slowly. If you have signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, contact Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle sprain happens when strong bands of tissue called ligaments stretch too far or tear. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones and keep the ankle stable. Most sprains are inversion sprains, which occur when the foot rolls inward and damages outer ankle ligaments. An eversion sprain occurs when the foot rolls outward and injures inner ankle ligaments. A high-ankle sprain affects ligaments above the joint. This injury can be more serious because these ligaments hold the lower-leg bones together. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising. A patient may also have trouble placing weight on the injured foot.

Ankle sprains can result from a sudden misstep or awkward landing. They can happen while running, playing sports, or even stepping off a curb. Uneven ground can cause the ankle to roll. Quick direction changes and contact with another player can force the joint beyond its normal range. Risk increases with weak ankle muscles, poor balance, or a previous sprain. Shoes that lack proper support can make the ankle less stable. However, even a strong ankle in well-fitting shoes can be sprained when enough force is placed on its ligaments.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle and determine which ligaments were injured. The evaluation considers how the injury happened and where pain is located. The podiatrist checks swelling, movement, and joint stability. X-rays can reveal a fracture that causes similar symptoms. Other imaging tests can show ligament or tissue damage when the diagnosis remains unclear. Treatment depends on the sprain's type and severity. A podiatrist can provide a brace, walking boot, or other support to protect the ankle. This foot doctor also can recommend activity changes and monitor healing. Severe ligament damage or instability can require surgery. Diagnosis matters because an untreated sprain can lead to repeated injuries, lasting pain, and poor balance. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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