Doctors treat poor leg circulation with lifestyle changes, medications (like statins or blood thinners), and procedures such as angioplasty (balloon to open arteries), stenting (mesh tube to keep them open), or bypass surgery, depending on the underlying cause, often Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), to improve blood flow to the legs.
Cilostazol improves the flow of blood through the blood vessels. It is used to reduce leg pain caused by poor circulation (intermittent claudication). Cilostazol makes it possible to walk farther before having to rest because of leg pain.
A Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images that highlight blood flow in the leg arteries. This test detects and evaluates any blockages caused by plaque buildup.
They may recommend an exercise and diet program and medication, but some patients see the most benefit from a vascular treatment such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.
Graft bypass
A vascular doctor is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of arteries and veins. They can help you with a variety of issues that affect your blood vessels. Your family doctor can recommend a vascular doctor to help you with your specific issue.
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Circulation red flags
It can even be potentially life-threatening. Especially if it is not diagnosed and treated early. The “good news” is that PAD can be diagnosed quickly, easily, and painlessly. And if it's present, it can be treated effectively to lower your risk of more serious symptoms or death.
The only part of the body that has no blood supply is the cornea in the eye. It takes in oxygen directly from the air.
Symptoms of a blocked artery in the leg, often Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), typically start as muscle pain, cramping, or fatigue in the calves, thighs, or hips during activity (like walking) that goes away with rest, known as claudication. More severe blockage causes resting leg pain, cool skin, slow-healing sores, hair loss, shiny skin, or even gangrene, indicating significantly reduced blood flow.
For example, blood tests can't measure blood flow or detect blockages. A vascular screening is needed to identify blockages causing the decrease in blood flow. Blockages and changes in blood flow are typically paired with leg pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower extremities.
Low oxygen concentrations can include giddiness, mental confusion, loss of judgment, loss of coordination, weakness, nausea, fainting, loss of consciousness, and death. 20.9 percent: Normal atmospheric oxygen content.
The build-up of fatty deposits on the walls of the arteries makes the arteries narrower and restricts blood flow to the legs. This process is called atherosclerosis. There are certain things that can increase your chances of developing PAD and other forms of CVD, including: smoking – the most significant risk factor.
Compression socks are designed to improve blood circulation by applying pressure to move blood up the legs and toward the heart. They come in different pressure levels, from light (less than 20 mmHg) to firm (40 or 50 mmHg).
Lifestyle changes that improve circulation
Exercise: Activities that keep you upright and moving — such as walking or jogging — encourage blood flow. Compression socks: The gentle pressure of compression garments helps blood move back toward your heart and decreases swelling.
How is poor circulation treated? Your provider may order medicine for you or do surgery to: Open blocked arteries (angioplasty) or go around them (bypass). Remove a blood clot (catheter-assisted thrombus removal).
Poor circulation is a risk for amputation, and it is not something to be ignored. At the very least it causes discomfort in the legs and feet, and if left unchecked can lead to amputations.
Poor circulation in veins can lead to conditions such as:
The ankle-brachial index test compares the blood pressure in the ankle with the blood pressure in the arm. A low ankle-brachial index number can mean there is narrowing or blockage of the arteries in the legs. Ankle-brachial index testing might be done before and right after walking on a treadmill.
Walking is something that almost everyone can participate in, and it is one of the most significant ways to enhance blood circulation in the legs naturally. Any amount of walking is the number one recommendation for improving circulation. You can start small, taking short walks, even as little as five minutes daily.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is often caused by a buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls, a condition called atherosclerosis. The buildup is called plaque. Plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. In PAD, plaque collects in the arteries of the arms or legs.
Do not use if: You are fitted with an electronic implanted device such as a heart pacemaker or Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD) You are pregnant. You are being treated for, or have the symptoms of, an existing Deep Vein Thrombosis (“DVT”)
Massaging your legs and feet stimulates circulation by encouraging blood to move through congested areas. Massage can also relax tight muscles and reduce stress. Techniques: Use circular motions with moderate pressure. Tools: Consider using a foam roller or an electric foot massager for added convenience.
Certain actions and foods can help open blood vessels immediately. Deep breathing exercises, stretching, and light physical activity like walking can stimulate blood flow. Consuming foods rich in nitric oxide, such as beets, garlic, spinach, and dark chocolate, helps dilate blood vessels.