An excessive amount of sugar in the bloodstream from uncontrolled diabetes can cause the blood vessels to narrow and thereby reduce the amount of blood flowing through the veins. This is known as poor circulation, which is responsible for a variety of complications which can develop in diabetic patients—particularly in their feet—such as diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Both of these conditions can lead to pain, mobility issues, and even stroke and heart attack. Some warning signs of poor circulation include brittle nails, cold, numb, or pins-and-needles sensations in your feet, and wounds that don’t heal. If you have diabetes and are experiencing symptoms such as these, contact a podiatrist who can examine you and devise a treatment regimen to help you improve circulation in your feet.

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 Family Foot & Ankle Centers. 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 one of our offices located in Corsicana, Ennis, and Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.