What is poor circulation?
Poor circulation means not enough blood is reaching your feet and legs. It matters because it can be a sign of other health problems.
Watch for feet that often feel unusually cold, numb, tingly, swollen, burning or tired. Other signs include discoloured or dry skin, loss of hair on the feet or legs, and cramping or tightness in the leg muscles.
Common causes
Poor circulation is often linked to:
- High blood pressure or heart disease
- Diabetes
- Kidney, heart or blood vessel problems
- Smoking
What you can do at home
Simple steps can help blood flow:
- Avoid tight clothing on your legs and feet — snug pantyhose, girdles, thigh-highs, knee-highs or dress socks that leave marks.
- Walk regularly. Walking helps the tiny blood vessels that feed your tissues grow and work better.
- If you've been told you have poor circulation, check with your doctor before starting a walking program.
- Tell your podiatrist about any existing conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems, anemia or kidney issues.
How a podiatrist helps
We'll check the blood flow in your feet and help you protect them. Dr. Rosenfeld can:
- Do a full check of the circulation in your feet and legs
- Advise you on preventing sores, infections and wounds that won't heal
- Decide whether you should see a vascular surgeon, and arrange the referral through your family doctor (G.P.)