Patients who have poor circulation may have existing health ailments. This condition can be indicative of serious maladies that may include diabetes, kidney damage, or heart disease. People who sit for the majority of the day may be susceptible to developing poor circulation, but this condition may be avoided by gently stretching during the day. Additionally, eating foods that are unhealthy may put people at an increased risk for poor circulation. Some of the signs people notice can include leg cramps, cold feet, and patients may become unusually tired. If you feel you have this condition and are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat poor circulation.
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 Toe-tal Family Footcare Associates. 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 Vista, CA and Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.