Poor circulation can cause cramping in the calf or buttocks when walking.  The symptoms can progress to severe cramping or pain at rest.  Often with associated color changes and temperature changes (the feet may turn bright red when hanging down and constantly feel cold).  Other symptoms include the skin becoming shiny, thinned and easily damaged.  A reduction in hair growth and a thickening of the toenails might also be present.

Poor circulation, resulting in reduced blood flow to the feet, restricts delivery of oxygen and nutrients that are required for normal maintenance and repair.  Healing of foot injuries, infection or ulceration is affected.  Our podiatric physicians have achieved great success improving circulation and wound healing by performing the proper circulation testing and the use of the circulator boot. Peripheral vascular bypass operations may avert lower extremity amputation.