September 2020

Discoloration of the skin on the feet may be a sign of poor circulation. Problems with circulation can be caused by many different conditions. Raynaud’s disease, a condition that can make the blood vessels in the hands and feet temporarily spasm and constrict, can restrict blood flow and make your feet turn blue, purple, red, or white. Lupus, an autoimmune disease, can cause an inflammation of the blood vessels called vasculitis, which can cause a rash of red or purple dots to appear on the skin. Peripheral artery disease, a condition characterized by poor blood flow to the lower extremities, can cause the feet to gradually turn purple or blue. Diabetes can have a similar effect on the feet. If you notice a discoloration in the skin of your feet, please see that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Stuart and Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People who enjoy taking long walks, power walking, or hiking are often aware of the importance of wearing shoes that fit correctly. This may help to prevent unwanted conditions from developing that can include blisters, corns, hammertoe, and ingrown toenails. It is beneficial to keep the nails properly trimmed, in addition to wearing socks that are made of breathable materials. It is suggested to carry an extra pair of shoes and socks that can be worn if the first pair becomes wet. If you would like to learn more about how to keep your feet protected while walking, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Running is great exercise, but if you are not wearing the right shoes, you may be putting yourself at risk for injuries and pain. Before you run, make sure that you are wearing properly-fitted running shoes specifically designed for this sport. The exact type of running shoes that you buy can depend on several factors. Consider where you are planning to run, and choose shoes that work well on that surface. It is also important to determine the amount of cushioning that you would like under your foot and to know whether or not you need a specific type of shoe to support your gait. For more information on how to pick the best running shoes for you, consult with a podiatrist today.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Because of the natural weight gain and growth of the abdomen, women who are pregnant will experience a change in the forces that are exerted on the feet. Two common foot issues that are experienced during pregnancy are flat feet and swollen feet. Flattening of the arches of the feet can create stress on the soft tissues in the feet, such as the plantar fascia. Swelling of the feet occurs because of extra fluid in the body that has become displaced, causing circulation to slow down. Thankfully, these issues can be easily managed. However, if you are pregnant and experiencing these issues, it is important to consult with a podiatrist to treat and prevent further discomfort.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists, PA. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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