Items filtered by date: June 2023

Poor circulation can be common among older people. It is a condition that can affect the feet, and pain and discomfort may ensue. When circulation is good, existing wounds and cuts can heal quickly, and the body may be able to successfully ward off other ailments. Poor circulation is defined as a lack of oxygen that is needed by vital organs. Symptoms of poor circulation are often found in the feet and can consist of a tingling or numbing sensation. The feet may also be swollen, and the skin may become dry. Poor circulation can be caused by diabetes and atherosclerosis. This is a condition that causes a buildup of plaque in the arteries, and they can become narrow, possibly lessening blood flow. There can be additional health conditions that can lead to getting poor circulation, including smoking, consuming excess alcohol, and being overweight. Mild relief may be found when compression stockings are worn, and a gentle exercise routine is frequently performed. If you have poor circulation, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you relief and treatment options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors 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 Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral artery disease is a cardiovascular condition that can seriously affect the health of your feet. When fatty deposits build up in the arteries that serve the legs, the flow of blood to the feet and toes can be restricted. Common symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or PAD, include hair loss and weakness in the legs and feet, brittle or slow-growing toenails, and numbness in the lower extremities. One of the more serious results of PAD is the increased inability of sores or cuts on the feet and ankles to heal normally. If these wounds are not noticed or left unattended, they can become ulcerous. This is a common side effect of diabetes as the result of high levels of blood sugar. Foot ulcers can become gangrenous and increase the danger of losing a limb. Eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking and drinking, along with losing weight can all help to reduce the effects of peripheral artery disease. For help with this condition as it affects the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.