Dr Srinivas Chary A, consultant general medicine, Gleneagles Aware Hospital, LB Nagar, Hyderabad, concurred that doctors often examine the feet during a heart assessment, and for good reason. “From a clinical standpoint, the feet can reveal important clues about a patient’s cardiovascular health. During a heart exam, we check for signs such as swelling (edema) in the feet and ankles, which may indicate heart failure or poor circulation. If the heart is not pumping effectively, fluid can accumulate in the lower extremities due to gravity,” Dr Chary elaborated.

Experts also assess skin colour and temperature. “Cold, pale, or bluish feet might indicate reduced blood flow, possibly due to peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition often associated with heart disease. Poor wound healing or ulcers can further indicate compromised circulation,” said Dr Chary.

Notably, PAD is often associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke, said Dr Gupta.

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Additionally, checking foot pulses (like the dorsalis pedis or posterior tibial pulse) helps us gauge blood flow to the limbs. “A weak or absent pulse can signal vascular issues needing further evaluation,” said Dr Chary.

While the feet may seem far removed from the heart, they often serve as a valuable window into cardiovascular health. Ignoring these signs could mean missing early indicators of serious heart or vascular conditions, said Dr Chary.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.