More about Cold Feet...
Some Common Causes
- Disease of the veins or arteries in your legs (PVD - Peripheral Vascular Disease, which affects your veins, or PAD - peripheral artery disease, which affects your arteries).
- Because of reduced ability for your blood to circulate around your feet and legs properly, this increases your chances of suffering from this condition.
- This condition develops over time and therefore is most common in elderly people.
- Other things that can affect the development of this condition are:
- Smoking.
- Obesity – being overweight.
- Lack of exercise.
- Improper diet.
- High blood pressure.
- High cholesterol.
- Diabetes.
- Certain nerve and thyroid conditions.
- Pregnancy.
- Long periods sitting in a cramped and immobile position. (Ecomony Class Syndrome).
The Main Symptoms
- Early signs are cramp or tired legs when you walk. When pain is felt this will diminish or disappear entirely when you rest.
- Your feet and legs may swell up.
- Your feet may feel very tired or ache.
- As the disease develops the pain, swelling and cramp will occur even if you are resting.
- Sleep can be affected as a result.
- In addition to cold feet your feet may "fall asleep" or lose any sensation in them. "Pins and needles" will be quite common.
- Your feet may have dry, cracked or flaky skin.
Cathy Bowen
MSc DPodM ILTM, Podiatrist
Cold Feet
Cold Feet is a very common condition that is usually the result of bad circulation in your lower leg and feet. The body can respond to cold temperatures by reducing blood flow to the lower leg leaving your feet particularly vulnerable.
Suggested Treatments for Cold Feet
Stop smoking immediately.
Keep your blood pressure under control.
Keep you cholesterol levels within acceptable levels.
Exercise regularly.
Keep mobile as much as possible.
Keep your feet warm and comfortable all the time.
Wear support hosiery to help with your circulation.
Keep the skin on your feet and legs supple by using a good foot cream.
Other customers have found these useful for Cold Feet...
 Foot Essentials Warm That Sole 25ml |
Treating your condition
The Traffic Light symbol at the top of each condition page indicates the way you should approach it:
Red: Seek professional help immediately, either from a suitably qualified Podiatrist or Physiotherapist.
Amber: You can treat this condition yourself BUT you should seek professional help if you want reassurance that what you are doing is the best approach for you.
Green: You can treat this condition yourself if you feel comfortable doing so. However, for further reassurance it might be as well to talk the condition through with a suitably qualified Podiatrist.
Remember this advice is for guidance only and if you are in any doubt at all, please consult your nearest HPC Registered Podiatrist.