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The medical condition that is known as poor circulation may be indicative of serious health issues. Blood, oxygen, and nutrients are circulated throughout the body, and may be hindered as a result of specific ailments. These can include diabetes, obesity, and certain types of heart conditions. The symptoms that are generally associated with poor circulation can include a numbing or tingling sensation in the feet, sharp pain, and muscle cramps. If poor circulation is not promptly treated, it may lead to a stroke. If you are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, it is advised that you speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine the cause and offer proper treatment techniques.

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 Podiatry Associates of Texas. 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 our office located in Arlington, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An excess of calcium that forms underneath the heel bone can be a characteristic of a heel spur. It can gradually develop as a result of strain and inflammation on the muscles and ligaments, and the tissues surrounding the heel may swell. Some patients find moderate relief when the affected foot is elevated, a healthy weight is maintained, and shoes that fit properly are worn for the majority of the day. It is beneficial to perform certain foot stretches that can help strengthen the feet, and it may help to take anti-inflammatory medication as well. If you feel you have developed a heel spur, please consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible to determine the severity, and offer treatment options that are correct for you.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Texas. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Arlington, TX. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Your feet are covered a good part of the day. If you are diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often another sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Fungus is the cause of a medical condition that is known as athlete’s foot. The official name is tinea pedis, and is considered to be contagious. It lives and thrives in warm and moist environments, often consisting of public swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal shower rooms. It may pass from one person to another through clothing, or from walking without shoes. Noticeable symptoms that many patients experience can include skin between the toes becoming red, cracked, and blistered, in addition to being severely itchy. The healing process may be accelerated when antifungal cream or powder is used. Prevention methods can consist of wearing appropriate shoes while in these areas, and avoiding sharing shoes, socks, or towels with other people. If you have been afflicted with athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can prescribe the correct medication for you.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Associates of Texas. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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