Poor circulation decreases blood flow to different bodily areas. It may produce numbness, tingling, or swelling. Atherosclerosis, diabetes, and blood clots are all potential causes of impaired circulation. Treatment for poor circulation in hands and feet will vary depending on the underlying reason, however, it may involve lifestyle modifications such as increased activity, a healthy diet, and keeping a moderate weight.
Poor circulation in the extremities, such as the hands and feet, can be caused by some reasons, including peripheral artery disease, diabetes, and Raynaud’s disease.
If a person may have decreased circulation, blood arteries in a specific place are sealed, hardened, or narrow, Poor circulation in the feet can make them chilly, discolored, or numb.
How to Improve Circulation in Hands and Feet
The most effective technique to enhance hand and foot circulation is to deal with any underlying issues causing it. People can try:
Exercise:
- simple leg stretches can enhance vascular function after 12 weeks.
- The stretching program made arteries less rigid, allowing them to dilate.
Massage:
- Massaging your feet helps improve circulation.
- People with Raynaud’s disease may discover that it helps to avoid or lessen attacks.
Relaxation techniques:
include breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga.
Avoid coffee and alcohol:
Caffeine and alcohol can constrict blood vessels, exacerbating Raynaud’s.
Stay warm:
- keep your house at a reasonable temperature and bundle up in layers.
- Use hand or foot warmers as needed.
Solutions for Poor Circulation in Extremities
Improving circulation is vital for general health, and the following measures may help:
Diet
Focus on foods that promote cardiovascular health, such as anti-inflammatory meals, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and water.
Lifestyle changes
- getting regular physical activity.
- lowering stress.
- eliminating behaviors such as smoking, which can impair circulation.
Basic therapies
- Stretching.
- avoiding prolonged immobility.
- elevating the legs or arms to improve blood flow to the heart.
Compression Garments
For general use, compression socks or gloves might improve leg or arm circulation.
Best Treatments for Poor Blood Flow in Hands and Feet
Treatment for poor circulation in hands and feet includes:
Medical interventions
- Vasodilators: are medications that relax blood vessels and increase circulation in the hands and feet. Examples include calcium channel blockers and nitrates.
- Blood Thinners: These drugs can help avoid blood clots that may be restricting circulation.
- Topical Creams: Specific topical drugs or creams meant to increase local circulation may be advised.
Therapeutic devices
- Infrared Therapy: This may be used to promote blood flow in the hands and feet using heat or light.
Pneumatic Compression Devices
These gadgets increase circulation by inflating and deflating cuffs around your legs or arms.
Surgical Procedures
- Angioplasty: is a technique that opens up clogged blood arteries. It is commonly used to treat problems such as peripheral artery disease.
- Bypass Surgery: In extreme circumstances, bypass surgery may be necessary to redirect blood flow around blocked locations.
Cold and heat therapy
are specific cold or heat therapies for localized disorders (for example, warm baths or hot compresses to promote circulation in the hands and feet).
Compression Garments (Hands and Feet)
Specially designed compression gloves or stockings can assist promote blood flow, decrease edema, and prevent additional circulation problems in the extremities.
Read Also: Is Cold Hands and Feet a Sign of Heart Problems
References
- 8 ways to improve circulation. (2022, July 11). Retrieved from Medicalnewstoday website.
- NIH. (2022, March 24). Peripheral Artery Disease – Treatment | NHLBI, NIH. Retrieved from NIH website.
- Poor circulation in feet: Causes, treatments, and how to improve it. (2021, January 29). Retrieved from Medicalnewstoday website.
- Poor circulation: Symptoms, causes, treatment, and more. (2020, January 17). Retrieved from Medicalnewstoday website.
Microbiology and Immunology Specialist | Scientific Writer
Lina Mahmoud Ahmed graduated from Cairo University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine with a B.Sc. in Veterinary Medical Sciences and a diploma in Microbiology and Immunology. With extensive knowledge and hands-on expertise, Lina is dedicated to delivering accurate and well-researched medical content that simplifies complex information for readers. She can be reached at [email protected].
