Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and Your Feet: What to Look Out For
When it comes to looking after your feet, circulation is just as important as bones, joints, and skin health. One condition that often goes unnoticed is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). It happens when the arteries that carry blood to your legs and feet become narrowed, usually because of a build-up of fatty deposits.
PAD can make your feet more vulnerable to pain, wounds, and infections — which is why spotting it early makes a big difference.
What Exactly Is PAD?
Peripheral Arterial Disease is a circulation problem. Instead of blood flowing freely down into your legs and feet, the narrowed arteries make it harder for enough oxygen-rich blood to get through.
This can cause:
Pain or cramping in the calves, thighs, or buttocks while walking (this is called intermittent claudication)
Feet that feel cold compared to the rest of your body
Slow-healing cuts or wounds on the feet and legs
Why PAD Matters for Foot Health
Good circulation helps your feet stay healthy by:
Delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues
Helping wounds heal quickly
Reducing the risk of infection
When PAD reduces blood flow, even a small blister or cut on your foot can turn into a much bigger issue. For people with diabetes, PAD is especially concerning because it raises the risk of ulcers and infections that can become serious if untreated.
Common Warning Signs of PAD in the Feet
Keep an eye out for these changes:
Cold feet or toes even in warm rooms
Shiny, thin skin on the lower legs or feet
Loss of hair on the feet or toes
Weak or absent pulse in the feet
Cramping or pain when walking, which eases with rest
Sores that don’t heal after a couple of weeks
Who’s at Risk?
PAD is more common if you:
Smoke or have smoked in the past
Have diabetes
Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
Are over 60 years old
Have a family history of circulation problems
What To Do If You Suspect PAD
If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis can make a huge difference. A podiatrist can check the circulation in your feet with a simple test called an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), which compares blood pressure in your arm and ankle.
Depending on the results, you may also be referred to your GP or a vascular specialist for further tests.
How Podiatrists Can Help
At Achilles Foot Clinic, we work closely with patients to:
Monitor foot circulation
Spot early signs of poor blood flow
Give advice on footwear and foot care routines
Provide wound care for slow-healing cuts or ulcers
Coordinate care with other health professionals when needed
Taking Care of Your Feet with PAD
Even if you’ve been diagnosed with PAD, there are simple steps you can take:
Check your feet daily for cuts, sores, or colour changes
Wear well-fitting shoes that don’t rub
Keep active — gentle walking can help improve circulation
Stop smoking if you haven’t already
Manage blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol with your GP’s help
The Bottom Line
PAD might sound scary, but with the right care and lifestyle changes, you can keep your feet healthy and reduce your risks. The key is not to ignore the signs.
If you’ve noticed cramping in your calves, cold toes, or wounds that just won’t heal, it’s worth getting checked. Early action can prevent complications and help keep you moving comfortably.
