Poor circulation in the feet can manifest through various symptoms, indicating potential underlying health issues. Individuals may experience sensations of numbness, tingling, or pins and needles in the feet, often referred to as paresthesia. Coldness or coolness in the feet, even when the weather is warm, can also be a sign of reduced blood flow. Swelling, particularly in the ankles and feet, may occur due to fluid buildup caused by compromised circulation. Additionally, changes in skin color or texture, such as pale or bluish discoloration and dry or cracked skin, can indicate inadequate blood supply to the feet. Slow-healing wounds or ulcers, particularly on the feet or lower legs, may develop due to reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues. Recognizing these symptoms of poor circulation is critical for seeking medical evaluation and addressing underlying causes. Many patients have symptoms of poor circulation in the feet. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer relief and treatment solutions.

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 Gary Saphire, DPM of Parkway Podiatry. 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 our office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Besides the immediate discomfort of gout attacks, continuous and untreated gout attacks leave potential for joint damage. Gout is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the body. The acid crystallizes and builds up in the joints, leading to painful episodes called gout attacks that often start in the big toe. Recurrent gout attacks can contribute to joint damage and deterioration over time. The repeated inflammatory responses within the joints can erode cartilage, the protective tissue that cushions the joints, and can cause irreversible damage. Untreated gout can also lead to the formation of tophi, lumps of uric acid crystals that accumulate in and around the joints. While usually painless, tophi can cause damage to the bone, pop up above the skin, and become infected. If you have gout or big toe pain, it is suggested you seek the help of a podiatrist who can develop a treatment plan that prevents long-term joint damage and preserves your joint health.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition where the cuboid bone in the lateral foot column slips out of place, causing pain and discomfort. It is often mistaken for other foot issues, necessitating a thorough evaluation. The syndrome primarily involves ligament sprains, not fractures or major sprains, and is typically linked to specific movements during activities such as sports or dancing. Symptoms can include significant pain, resembling a fracture, and an altered gait. Swelling and skin discoloration are usually absent, and X-rays may appear normal. Contributing factors include tight footwear, lateral heel wear, and rapid return to lateral-heavy sports after ankle sprains. Addressing biomechanical problems, correcting alignment, and using orthotic padding under the cuboid are often used in management. If you have lateral foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine whether you have cuboid syndrome or some other condition. Treatment to alleviate pain and expedite recovery will be provided.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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

Caring for your feet is a cornerstone of overall well-being, directly influencing our ability to move and navigate the world with ease. Prioritize cleanliness by washing and thoroughly drying feet daily, safeguarding against infections and discomfort. Choose footwear wisely, opting for pairs that provide proper support, fit well, and allow ample room for toes to move freely. Regularly trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails and maintain proper foot hygiene. Additionally, embrace moisture management by applying a mild moisturizer to prevent dryness and cracking. Stretching exercises not only promote flexibility but also enhance circulation, supporting optimal foot health. Mindful inspection of feet for any unusual changes, such as swelling, redness, or pain, allows for prompt intervention if issues arise. Finally, prioritize regular physical activity to promote overall circulation and foot health. If you are seeking additional everyday foot care tips, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Gary Saphire, DPM from Parkway Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.