Poor circulation to the feet, known medically as peripheral vascular disease or PVD, is caused by blocked arteries and veins that supply blood to the extremities. According to the Texas Heart Institute, the blood vessels most distant from the heart, called the peripheral vessels, can become blocked due to the build-up of plaque caused by atherosclerosis. Blocked peripheral vessels lead to a condition called ischemia, a lack of oxygen, to the muscles, which causes pain and cramping.
Diagnosis of Poor Circulation
Physicians take a detailed history and physical exam to determine overall health status. According to the American Heart Association, certain tests may be ordered, such as an ultrasound, x-ray angiography and an MRA, or magnetic resonance imaging angiography, to evaluate how open the blood vessels are. The ultrasound uses sound waves to make a picture of blood flowing through the vessels, and angiography uses dye injected into the vessels to track blood flow.
Symptoms of Poor Circulation
Poor circulation in the feet can affect one side of the body or both and typically leads to the development of specific symptoms. According to MayoClinic.com, painful cramping in the calves or thighs, called intermittent claudication, while walking or climbing stairs is an indication of poor circulation. The pain and cramping dissipate with rest. There can be weakness or numbness of the foot. The skin can become red and shiny, having a noticeably cooler temperature along with a weak pulse. Sores may develop on the feet that are slow to heal. Hair and toenails may grow more slowly. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Risk Factors
According to the American Diabetes Association, having diabetes puts you at a higher risk than normal for developing poor circulation in your feet. Other risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, being overweight or not physically active, and having a family history of poor circulation or heart disease. If left untreated or poorly managed, poor circulation in the feet can lead to the development of gangrene and the loss of toes or part of the foot.
Lifestyle Changes and Treatment Options
Smoking and having diabetes are the two greatest risk factors for developing poor circulation in the feet, so quitting smoking and keeping diabetes well-controlled can help prevent advancement of the disease. The American Heart Association states that having a regular exercise program, controlling blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels are lifestyles changes that can prevent the advancement of poor circulation. If necessary, medications, such as aspirin and cilostazol, are available to control symptoms.
Daily Foot Care Regimen
Poor circulation makes the feet more prone to injury and developing infection. Yale Medical Library recommends having a daily foot regimen to avoid problems. Those with poor circulation should keep their feet clean, bathing them daily with lukewarm water and a mild soap. The feet should be checked daily for corns, callouses and open sores. Toenails should be trimmed regularly by a podiatrist, and shoe-gear should fit well and be comfortable. Any infections should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
References
- Texas Heart Institute: Peripheral Vascular Disease
- American Heart Association: Peripheral Vascular Disease
- MayoClinic.com: Peripheral Arterial Disease Symptoms
- American Diabetes Association: Peripheral Arterial Disease
- Yale Medical Library: Peripheral Vascular Disease by Dr. Michael D. Ezekowitz, M.D., Ph.D.
