Poor circulation may occur when there is an insufficient amount of blood flow to a particular region of the body, commonly affecting the feet. Patients with poor circulation have noticed symptoms including numbness, muscle cramps, and throbbing or tingling pains. Poor circulation may also be an indicator for possible nerve damage. One of the more serious symptoms caused by poor circulation is a loss of feeling in the feet. This can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you have developed a harmful foot condition and can not feel the symptoms that would lead you to seek help and get care. To help improve poor circulation, it’s recommended that you increase your mobility and practice a more active lifestyle. Elevating the feet is another tip to help improve poor circulation, as it makes it easier for your body to pump blood away from the feet and back up to the heart. Making sure you stay hydrated throughout the day, managing your blood sugar levels, and implementing more foods that are rich in iron into your diet, may all help to improve circulation as well. For more advice on how to improve poor circulation, we recommend you speak with a podiatrist for professional care.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Robert Graser of Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

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 Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.