A disruption to circulation and tissue function means that your foot is less well supplied with blood or does not recover as well. As a result, your foot may become more prone to problems. Circulation refers to the blood supply to your feet and legs. Tissue function refers to how the skin, muscles, nerves and other tissues work and recover.

If circulation and tissue function are impaired, the foot becomes more vulnerable. Pressure sores, cuts or pain can develop more quickly. Recovery may also take longer.

A disturbance in circulation or tissue function can have various causes. For example:

diabetes;
reduced blood flow;
nerve damage;
prolonged pressure on the foot;
an inflammation;
a previous injury;
complex regional pain syndrome.

The symptoms associated with impaired circulation and tissue function vary from person to person. Sometimes pain is the main symptom. At other times, you may notice that your skin is changing or that a small wound is not healing as you would expect.

You may, for example, notice that:

if your foot feels cold or changes colour, for example, becoming pale, red or blue;
you have reduced sensation or, conversely, experience a burning or stinging sensation;
minor wounds or pressure sores heal slowly;
the skin becomes thinner, shinier or more fragile;
you experience pain whilst walking, which eases when you rest;
if swelling or a difference in temperature occurs.

If you suddenly experience severe pain, if your foot becomes cold or pale, or if you quickly notice a loss of sensation or strength, this may indicate a problem that can be treated quickly. You should therefore contact your GP immediately.

A healthy lifestyle can have a significant impact on blood circulation and the recovery of the feet. Getting enough exercise, not smoking, eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy body weight can all contribute to better circulation and improved wound healing.

Proper management of conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease is also important. If blood circulation or sensation in the feet is reduced, minor wounds, pressure sores or skin problems can develop more quickly and take longer to heal.

Mental health also plays a part. Stress, poor sleep or worries can affect recovery and the ability to maintain healthy habits. Our lifestyle coaches can work with you to consider lifestyle changes that may support your recovery. For example, improving your sleep, eating more healthily and working towards a healthy body weight. When symptoms affect your daily activities, our occupational therapists thinking alongside you.

If you notice any changes to your feet, it is important not to wait too long before seeking help. Consult your GP if you have any concerns.

There is a lot you can do yourself to recognise and seek treatment for impaired circulation and tissue function at an early stage. For example, you can:

check your feet daily for cuts, pressure sores and discolouration;
wear shoes that fit well;
Do not walk barefoot if you have reduced sensation;
do not treat minor wounds yourself for too long;
continue to get enough exercise within your capabilities;
Please get in touch if symptoms worsen or a minor injury does not heal.

Our podiatrists We will investigate what has made your foot more vulnerable. Among other things, we will examine the skin, pressure distribution, sensation in the foot and how you put weight on your foot.

Treatment may consist of:

advice on shoes;
podiatry insoles to distribute pressure more evenly;
temporary pressure relief;
monitoring and support for pressure sores;
in collaboration with your GP, practice nurse, pedicure or other healthcare provider;
referral if further investigation is required.

If our podiatrists notice signs of circulation problems or wounds that are healing poorly, they will consult your GP.

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Disruption of circulation and tissue function

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