What are the common foot problems in people with peripheral artery disease and how can exercise help?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition where the arteries narrow, reducing blood flow to the limbs. This is often caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries. People with PAD may experience various symptoms in their feet, such as pain, numbness, weakness, or coldness. These symptoms can make walking difficult and affect the quality of life. People with diabetes are at higher risk of foot complications due to neuropathy, which causes numbness and makes it harder to feel pain from foot problems. To diagnose PAD, doctors often perform a pulse check during a physical exam and look for foot deformities like hammertoes or bunions. Diagnostic tools may include imaging tests or blood flow measurements. Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, can help reduce PAD symptoms. Exercise improves blood circulation, which can alleviate symptoms like numbness and weakness. Medications such as antihypertensives, statins, and antiplatelet drugs may also be prescribed to manage PAD. Cilostazol, an antihypertensive medication, has been shown to help improve walking distance and reduce leg pain caused by PAD.