If your feet always seem to be cold, especially at bedtime, you may be suffering from poor circulation in your lower extremities. When fatty deposits (plaques) build up within arteries (atherosclerosis), this can cause them to narrow and thereby reduce the blood supply. This condition, known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD), can make your feet feel cold and cause pain in your calves. It can also make your feet look blue or purplish when sitting and white or pale when lying down. Cold feet can also occur in people who do not have enough body fat, which helps insulate the body. Small blood vessels then try to conserve heat by constricting, which causes toes and other parts of the body to feel cold or numb and turn blue followed by white. This is known as Raynaud's phenomenon. If your feet feel cold or numb, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to assess the situation.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Robert Stein, DPM of South Shore Foot Care. 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 offices located in Cedarhurst and Franklin Square, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.