Poor circulation happens when blood does not flow effectively to parts of the body. The feet are vulnerable because they are far from the heart. Reduced blood flow can limit the oxygen and nutrients reaching the tissues. Signs can include numbness, tingling, and swelling. The feet can also feel unusually cold or develop changes in skin color. Poor circulation can contribute to aching or cramping in the legs and feet. Wounds can also heal more slowly when the tissues do not receive enough blood.

Several health problems can interfere with circulation. Atherosclerosis occurs when plaque builds up inside arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. When this problem affects the limbs, it is called peripheral artery disease, or PAD. Diabetes can also damage blood vessels and contribute to circulation problems. Blood clots can restrict or completely block blood flow. Smoking can narrow blood vessels and increase plaque buildup. Limited physical activity can also raise the risk of conditions linked to poor circulation. These causes make persistent changes in the feet important to evaluate.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for signs that blood flow is reduced. The evaluation can include checking skin color, temperature, and pulses in the feet. A podiatrist can also look for sores that are healing slowly and changes in the toenails or skin. Tests can help determine whether circulation problems are affecting the lower limbs. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of reduced blood flow. Early evaluation is important because poor circulation can interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of serious foot complications. Regular podiatric care can help protect vulnerable feet and identify concerning changes before they become more severe. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. 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 West Columbia, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Proper shoe fit plays an important role in keeping the feet comfortable and reducing the risk of developing problems.  Wearing shoes that are too narrow or tight can place unnecessary pressure on the feet. A well-fitting shoe should match the natural shape of the foot rather than forcing the foot into an uncomfortable position. Shoe sizes can vary between brands and styles, so the number printed inside a shoe does not always determine whether it fits correctly. Both feet should also be measured because one foot may be larger than the other. Choosing footwear based on the larger foot can provide a more comfortable fit.

Several features can help determine whether footwear fits and functions properly. Stability is important because the foot should not roll or twist too easily inside the shoe. Cushioning can help absorb shock, while proper support allows the bottom of the foot to sit comfortably against the footbed. There should also be enough space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. Foot shape matters as well. Someone with a wide or square-shaped foot may need a different fit than someone with a long or narrow foot shape. Shoes should feel comfortable when first worn rather than relying on them to become comfortable later.

A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and identify problems that may make finding properly fitting shoes more difficult. Foot type can affect footwear needs, especially when the foot is either particularly flexible or rigid. A podiatrist can also assess areas of pressure and determine whether additional support may be appropriate. In some cases, an orthotic device or custom insole may help the foot sit more securely against the shoe’s footbed. Proper footwear can support foot comfort and healthy movement throughout daily activities. If poorly fitting shoes are contributing to ongoing foot pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate footwear recommendations.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Jennifer M. Kern, DPM from South Carolina. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that can affect anyone, not just athletes. The fungus grows well in warm, damp places and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Public showers, locker-room floors, and pool areas can increase exposure. Feet that remain sweaty inside tight shoes can also create conditions that allow the fungus to grow. Symptoms include itching, redness, and peeling skin. Some patients develop burning or stinging, while others notice cracks between the toes. The infection can also cause blisters or thick, scaly skin on the soles and sides of the feet.

Because athlete’s foot spreads easily, an infection can pass to other people or reach other areas of the body. Scratching an infected foot and then touching another area can transfer the fungus. A podiatrist can examine the affected skin and determine whether the problem is athlete’s foot or another condition with similar symptoms. When the diagnosis is uncertain, the podiatrist can take a small skin scraping for testing. This can help confirm whether fungus is present. A podiatric evaluation is especially important when the skin is badly cracked, painful, or showing signs of another infection.

A podiatrist can recommend treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. Treatment can help clear the fungus, reduce uncomfortable symptoms, and lower the chance of spreading it. The podiatrist can also check the toenails because fungal infections can sometimes affect both the skin and nails. Patients can receive guidance on keeping the feet dry and reducing future exposure to fungus. This includes choosing breathable shoes, changing damp socks, and protecting the feet in shared wet areas. Follow-up care can help determine whether the infection has cleared or requires a different treatment approach. If you have developed an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM from South Carolina.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

A bunion is a bony bump that forms along the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe. It develops as  the big toe begins to lean toward the smaller toes, causing the joint at its base to shift outward. Bunions often develop gradually and may become more noticeable over time. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness around the affected joint. The big toe may also become stiff or difficult to move. Although some bunions cause little discomfort, others can make walking or wearing certain shoes painful. Changes in foot structure and family history can increase the likelihood of developing bunions.

As a bunion progresses, the changing position of the big toe can affect how pressure is distributed across the foot. This may lead to discomfort while walking and make the joint more sensitive to pressure from footwear. Some people develop hardened skin over the bunion or experience pain in nearby toes. Arthritis can also affect the big-toe joint and contribute to stiffness. Because bunions can worsen over time, persistent symptoms should be professionally evaluated. An examination can determine the severity of the deformity and identify other foot problems that may be contributing to pain or difficulty walking.

A podiatrist can evaluate a bunion by examining the foot, big-toe position, and joint movement. X-rays may be recommended to measure changes in alignment and assess the condition of the joint. Podiatric treatment depends on the severity of the bunion and how much it affects daily activities. Care may focus on reducing pressure, improving foot function, and managing discomfort. For severe bunions that continue to cause significant problems, surgery may be considered to correct the position of the toe. If bunion pain, swelling, or stiffness is making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Jennifer M. Kern, DPM of South Carolina. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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