When blood circulation to the feet becomes impaired, an individual may suffer a variety of negative consequences. For example, when circulation slows, the feet can become numb, discolored, and cold. In some cases, poor circulation might even cause hair loss below the knees and cracked skin on the feet. Pregnant women and individuals suffering from diabetes are at a particular risk of suffering from poor circulation. However, there are several steps that you can take to improve and promote blood circulation to your feet. First, you might consider purchasing a pair of compression socks, which exert pressure on your feet, effectively encouraging circulation by forcing blood vessels to travel up to the heart. To promote better circulation, you might also try simply adding more physical activity to your daily routine if you are someone who spends a significant part of your day at rest. By increasing movement, you can effectively loosen arteries and facilitate blood circulation. Lastly, you might try massaging your feet to jump start blood circulation throughout the feet. Contacting a podiatrist may help you better understand ways that you can increase blood circulation in your feet.
While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Livingston Foot Care Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.
Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
- Pain
- Muscle Cramps
Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.
As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in North Bellmore, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.