The heart pumps blood throughout the body, including the feet. However, when arteries become partially or completely blocked, blood flow decreases, depriving tissues of oxygen. This condition is called peripheral artery disease (PAD) and primarily affects the legs and feet.

Warning signs to watch out for:

Pain in the feet or legs when walking, which disappears with rest;
numbness or tingling in the feet;
wounds that heal slowly or not at all;
cold feet or pale skin (a sign of poor circulation).