Cold feet due to poor circulation are a difficult condition to treat. If you are experiencing overly cold feet that you think might be due to poor circulation, you should seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Kevin Sunshein of Sunshein Podiatry Associates. Dr. Sunshein will give you a thorough examination to determine the cause of your cold feet and recommend appropriate treatment options.
What Is Poor Circulation?
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is 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. It usually restricts the amount of blood which flows through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is 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
- Numbness in legs
- Cramps
- Skin discoloration
- Weakness
- Slower nail & hair growth
- Stiffness
- Erectile dysfunction
Those who have diabetes and or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, or who are over 50.