Your heart might be the engine of your body, but your feet act as tireless messengers. The intricate connection between circulation and foot health is often overlooked, yet ignoring it can lead to serious consequences.

Syracuse Podiatry knows that when your feet are hurting, the rest of your body tends to follow suit. That’s why we put together this blog post. Step one? Get the facts about your heart-feet connection!

In the Know About Blood Flow

Let’s get the facts straight:

• Like your feet, blood is constantly in motion, delivering oxygen and nutrients to every cell.
• Circulation relies on healthy arteries and veins, particularly in the lower extremities.
• When circulation struggles, your feet bear the brunt of it. After all, they are the body parts furthest from your heart, and blood must travel a greater distance to reach them.

Red Flags, Tingling Toes

These are a few warnings to watch for:

• Numbness or tingling: This can indicate nerve damage due to poor circulation.
• Pain, particularly at night: Aching, throbbing, or burning sensations in your feet could be a sign of blood flow issues.
• Discoloration: Pale or cold feet might point to decreased circulation, while redness or warmth could indicate inflammation.
• Slow-healing wounds: If minor cuts or scrapes on your feet take forever to heal, it could be a sign of poor blood flow.
• Hair loss on your legs: Reduced blood flow can limit nutrient delivery, leading to hair loss on the lower extremities.

Step Toward Healthy Circulation

Here are some key steps to take towards better foot-heart balance:

• Regular exercise, especially walking or swimming, gets blood pumping and keeps arteries happy.
• Smoking is a major enemy of good circulation. Quitting can significantly improve blood flow.
• Excess weight puts additional strain on your heart and circulation, so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for optimal foot health.
• Diabetes can seriously impact circulation. Managing your blood sugar levels is essential for protecting your feet and overall health.

If you still have questions or concerns, please contact us and make an appointment. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, and Dr. Nicholas Cronin look forward to assisting you!