Poor circulation in the feet can lead to discomfort and long-term health issues if left untreated. Common signs of poor circulation include cold feet, numbness or tingling sensations, and swelling in the feet and ankles. People may also experience cramping or a feeling of heaviness, especially after standing or walking for extended periods. Discoloration, such as a bluish or pale appearance, is another warning sign. The causes of poor circulation in the feet often include conditions like diabetes, peripheral artery disease, or varicose veins, which affect blood flow. Additionally, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to poor circulation. Wearing tight footwear or sitting for long periods can also restrict blood flow to the feet. If these symptoms persist, it is suggested you seek treatment from a podiatrist to prevent further complications and improve circulation to the feet. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM of Illinois. 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 Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Seniors are at a higher risk of falling due to various factors, including weakened muscles, reduced balance, and impaired vision. As people age, muscle mass naturally decreases, which can lead to a lack of stability. Poor vision, whether from cataracts or other age-related conditions, makes it harder to detect obstacles in the environment, increasing the chance of tripping. Certain medications can also cause dizziness or weakness, further contributing to falls. To prevent falls, seniors should engage in regular exercise to improve strength and balance. Wearing supportive, non-slip footwear is essential for reducing slips, and ensuring the home is free of obstacles, such as loose rugs or clutter, can minimize hazards. Proper lighting in hallways and bathrooms, along with grab bars in key areas, will help make the environment safer. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and educate you on fall prevention methods.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Surgery may be recommended when a bunion causes persistent discomfort or pain that does not improve with conservative treatments. A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a deformity at the base of the big toe, often resulting in a bony bump, irritation, and difficulty wearing shoes. Surgical options focus on realigning the affected joint to improve function and reduce pain. Common bunion surgery procedures include osteotomy, where the bone is cut and repositioned, and arthrodesis, which involves fusing the joint for long-term stability. In some cases, removing part of the bone or soft tissue may also be necessary to restore alignment. The choice of procedure depends on factors like the severity of the bunion and the effect it has on other parts of the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate the situation, explain surgical options, and guide you through the recovery process. If you have a bunion that is causing constant discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if surgery is an option.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.