Maintaining healthy circulation during a New Jersey winter isn’t easy, but we at Podiatry Center of New Jersey know just how to keep the blood flowing to your feet, which often get the coldest. Here is how you can keep your blood flowing smoothly until spring arrives. If the Olympic athletes can do it, so can you (to a more realistic extent)!

How to Boost Blood Flow to Your Feet

Your calf muscles act like a second heart by pumping blood back up your legs, so you need to keep them engaged.

  • The Warming Commute: If you’re heading into the office, don’t just stand still on the platform. Keep your toes moving inside your boots and perform standing calf raises while you wait for the train. This prevents blood from pooling in your ankles.
  • Hydrotherapy at Home: Before bed, try alternating your feet between warm and cool water in the tub. This contrast bath forces your blood vessels to rapidly open and close, which acts like a workout for your circulatory system and helps flush out stagnant fluid.
  • Layering Without Restriction: It is a common mistake to wear socks that are too tight. If your thick wool socks are squeezing your ankles, they are actually acting like a tourniquet. Opt for smarter socks that offer a snug but flexible fit.

Signs of Poor Circulation to Look Out For

But how do you know if your cold feet are a normal winter response or a sign of something more serious? You should keep an eye out for these clinical red flags:

  • The Pitting Test: If you press your thumb into your ankle and it leaves a visible indentation that takes several seconds to disappear, you have pitting edema. This suggests that fluid is trapped in your tissues because your circulation isn’t efficient enough to go back to your heart.
  • Color Changes: If your toes turn white, then blue, and a throbbing red when exposed to the cold, you may be experiencing Raynaud’s Phenomenon.
  • Slow-Healing Nicks: If a small scratch on your foot from a dry-skin itch takes weeks to heal, it’s a sign that your blood isn’t delivering enough blood to the skin to repair it.

When to Consult a Podiatrist About Poor Circulation

Poor circulation can be an early warning sign for underlying issues like peripheral artery disease or venous insufficiency.

If your feet feel heavy, if you experience cramping in your calves while walking, or if your skin appears shiny and hairless, it might be time for a professional evaluation.

If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.