Smoking can have a significant negative impact on foot health by reducing circulation, leading to various conditions. One of the most common problems associated with smoking is poor foot circulation, which occurs due to narrowed blood vessels. This can result in peripheral artery disease, PAD, a condition where the blood flow to the feet is limited, causing pain, numbness, and in severe cases, tissue damage. Smokers are also at a higher risk of developing Buerger’s disease, a rare but serious condition that causes blood vessels in the toes to become inflamed, leading to reduced blood flow and potential tissue death. Symptoms of these conditions include cramping in the legs, cold or discolored feet, slow-healing wounds, and hair loss on the feet or legs. If you have symptoms of poor foot circulation, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment methods, and, if necessary, guide you on smoking cessation 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 Nola Sole Podiatry. 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 New Orleans, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A fractured or broken toe typically results from trauma, such as stubbing the toe, dropping a heavy object on it, or sports injuries. Repetitive stress from activities like running can also cause small fractures over time. Common symptoms include swelling, bruising, redness, and difficulty walking. The toe may appear misaligned, and pain intensifies when trying to move or put weight on it. Treatment depends on the severity. For minor fractures, rest and elevation can help reduce swelling. Taping the injured toe to a neighboring one, known as buddy taping, provides support. However, severe fractures, such as those involving dislocation or improper alignment, may require immobilization, specialized footwear, or even surgery to ensure proper healing. If you suspect a fractured toe, it is suggested that you seek prompt evaluation by a podiatrist to prevent complications and ensure effective recovery.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nola Sole Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

The feet are often overlooked, but they can provide important insights into overall health. Many symptoms occur in the feet before they are noticed elsewhere in the body. For instance, changes in foot appearance or structure, such as swollen or red feet, may indicate underlying issues like heart disease or diabetes. Conditions like athlete’s foot, fungal infections, or bunions are common signs of foot problems, while persistent foot pain can suggest joint issues, such as arthritis or gout. In some cases, poor circulation in the feet can be an early sign of peripheral artery disease or diabetes. Numbness, tingling, or changes in skin color may indicate nerve damage or systemic health issues. By paying attention to these signals and seeking early treatment, individuals can prevent more serious health problems. It is suggested that you consult a podiatrist when unusual symptoms arise. This type of doctor can treat various foot conditions and provide valuable insight into one’s overall well-being.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Nola Sole Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

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