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Poor circulation in the feet can lead to discomfort and may signal underlying health concerns. Common symptoms include cold feet, tingling, numbness, cramping, or a heavy sensation, especially during walking or rest. The skin may appear pale or bluish, and wounds may heal slowly. These signs often result from reduced blood flow, which limits oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues. Causes include peripheral artery disease, where narrowed blood vessels restrict circulation, and diabetes, which can damage blood vessels over time. Other contributing factors are smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Poor circulation can also stem from blood clots or nerve conditions. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher of Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

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 Houston and Sugar Land, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pronation and supination describe how the feet move during walking or running. Pronation occurs when the foot rolls inward, placing more weight on the inside edge, often flattening the arch. Supination is the opposite, with the foot rolling outward and weight shifting to the outer edge. Both are natural motions, but when either is excessive, it can lead to imbalance and discomfort. Overpronation may result in pain in the arch, heel, or ankle, while too much supination can strain the outer foot and cause heel pain or calluses. The uneven wear on shoe soles can often reveal if a person’s gait leans inward or outward. Factors such as high arches, leg length differences, past injuries, or prolonged standing on hard surfaces can contribute to these gait patterns. A podiatrist can assess the alignment of your foot and ankle, examine the extent of pronation or supination, and recommend orthotics or footwear changes to reduce strain and prevent further injury. If you have gait issues that are causing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, possible gait analysis, and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston and Sugar Land, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, making daily activities more challenging. It often develops from wear and tear on the joints, inflammation, or conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Regular foot exercises can help improve flexibility, reduce discomfort, and strengthen the surrounding muscles. The plantar fascia stretch involves gently pulling the toes back to stretch the bottom of the foot, easing tension and improving movement. A calf stretch helps loosen the Achilles tendon and reduce strain on the heel. Rolling a golf ball under the foot massages the plantar fascia, promoting circulation and relieving tightness. Additionally, marble pick-ups strengthen the toes by encouraging small movements that improve coordination and flexibility. If you have arthritis that is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you find relief, and also recommend additional foot stretches.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Sybil J. Fisher from Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Houston and Sugar Land, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.