Good blood flow is essential for healthy feet, yet circulation can slow with age, certain medical conditions, or a sedentary lifestyle. Reduced circulation may cause cold feet, numbness, swelling, or slow-healing wounds. Gentle daily movement helps keep blood flowing. Walking, ankle rotations, and rising onto your toes several times a day can stimulate circulation. Elevating your feet when resting encourages blood to return to the heart. Wearing supportive, non-restrictive shoes and socks can also make a difference. Staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, and managing conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure support overall vascular health. Consistent care helps maintain foot comfort and reduces the risk of complications. If you have ongoing symptoms of poor circulation, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor 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 offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Pregnancy often brings foot pain due to changes in weight, hormones, and posture. As your body supports a growing baby, extra weight puts increased pressure on your feet, leading to swelling, aches, and discomfort. Hormonal changes also cause ligaments to loosen, which can affect foot stability and arch support. Common symptoms include swollen feet and ankles, arch pain, heel pain, and a feeling of heaviness or fatigue in the feet. You might notice your shoes feel tighter or that your feet appear wider or flatter. A podiatrist can help by recommending supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and exercises to improve foot strength and flexibility. They may also advise on managing swelling through elevation and compression. Proper foot care during pregnancy can ease discomfort and prevent long-term problems. If you are pregnant and have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief solutions.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children’s feet are still growing and developing, making proper foot care and well-fitting shoes essential. Common foot issues in children include flat feet, toe walking, in-toeing, and heel pain, often from Sever’s disease. These problems can be caused by genetics, wearing improper footwear, or overuse during sports and play. Symptoms include limping, frequent tripping, uneven shoe wear, or complaints of foot, ankle, or leg pain. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or lack support can worsen these issues or cause blisters, calluses, and posture problems. A podiatrist can assess your child’s foot development and walking pattern, recommend proper footwear, and provide custom orthotics, if needed. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term problems and supporting healthy growth. If you suspect your child is having foot issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Judson Siegel, DPM of Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Feet carry the body’s full weight with every step, making them especially vulnerable when health is not at its best. Extra pounds can place excess pressure on the arches, heels, and joints, often leading to pain, inflammation, or instability. A lack of movement can weaken muscles and limit circulation, setting the stage for long-term damage. Diabetes adds further risk, as poor blood flow and nerve changes may prevent a person from noticing injuries. Small cuts or pressure spots can turn into serious infections, if left untreated. In combination, these factors often make foot care more complex and more important. Ignoring foot discomfort can lead to lasting problems, especially when other health concerns are involved. If your feet ache, swell, or feel numb, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a personalized evaluation and plan to keep you steady, mobile, and protected.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Judson Siegel, DPM from Assabet Family Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plainville, Marlborough, and Somerset, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.