Poor circulation in the feet and lower legs can be caused by several common health issues that impact blood flow. One of these health issues is peripheral artery disease, or PAD, where arteries narrow due to plaque buildup. This reduces blood supply to the lower limbs and feet. Diabetes can also contribute to circulation problems because changing blood sugar levels damages blood vessels, reducing their ability to transport blood efficiently. Obesity can also contribute by putting strain on the circulatory system, and sedentary lifestyles further hinder blood flow. Smoking is another major risk factor for poor circulation in the feet, as it causes constriction and hardening of the arteries. Symptoms of poor circulation include cold feet, numbness, tingling, swelling, and in severe cases, pain and skin color changes. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist, or foot doctor, can help you manage and mitigate the effects of poor circulation. If you have any symptoms of poor circulation in the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for care. 

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 Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. 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 Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot problems can have a profound impact on an individual's quality of life, affecting various aspects such as mobility, comfort, and overall well-being. Foot pathologies, including bunions, plantar fasciitis, and hammertoes, can cause chronic pain and discomfort, limiting one's ability to engage in daily activities and enjoy recreational pursuits. Moreover, these conditions often necessitate modifications in footwear choices, which can further restrict options and affect self-esteem. Foot alterations and deformities not only impair mobility but also have broader implications for general health and physical activity. Poor foot mechanics can lead to joint pain, muscle imbalances, and altered gait patterns, predisposing individuals to injuries and reducing participation in exercise and sports. Addressing foot problems through proper footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted interventions is essential for maintaining mobility, preserving independence, and improving overall quality of life. If you have foot problems, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat such issues, thereby helping you live a more active, fulfilling life.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, a chronic autoimmune condition, can have a profound effect on the feet, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness that significantly impair mobility and quality of life. In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, many of which are in the feet, leading to inflammation and joint damage. Common symptoms of RA in the feet include tender, swollen joints, particularly in the toes and ankles, and difficulty walking or bearing weight due to pain and stiffness. Over time, untreated RA can cause deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet, further compromising foot function and comfort. Additionally, RA can increase the risk of other foot problems, such as corns, calluses, or ulcers, particularly if mobility is limited or proper foot care is neglected. If you are afflicted by this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose RA and provide you with a comprehensive management plan.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM of Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Foot stress fractures are a common yet often overlooked injury that can sideline individuals from their daily activities. These fractures occur when repetitive stress on the bones surpasses their ability to repair themselves, resulting in tiny cracks or breaks. Several factors contribute to the development of foot stress fractures, including overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, improper footwear, and biomechanical abnormalities. Runners, dancers, and athletes involved in high-impact sports are particularly susceptible to these types of fractures due to the repetitive stress placed on their feet. Additionally, factors such as poor bone density, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances can increase the risk of stress fractures. Symptoms of foot stress fractures include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness. It is beneficial to incorporate into your routine proper rest, adequate footwear, and training techniques that may help in preventing foot stress fractures. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat foot stress fractures.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Kellvan Cheng, DPM from Elite Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.