|  | | | Cold Feet? Not So Cool
If you suffer from chronically cold hands and feet, the winter weather may not be your only concern. Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a common, benign vascular disorder characterized by episodes of constriction of very small arteries in the toes and fingers, usually in response to cold temperatures or stress. Symptoms in the fingers and toes include unusual paleness and/or a red or bluish color to the skin. Occasionally other parts of the body are affected including the nose, ears, and/or tongue. RP does not usually occur in association with any other underlying disorder and may also be referred to as primary Raynaud's disease.
| RP most frequently affects women, especially in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. The causes of RP are unknown. Commonly, RP manifests itself when you see your fingers and toes go through a three-phase color sequence. Initially, the digit(s) | | involved turn white due to a diminished blood supply. They then turn blue because of prolonged lack of oxygen, and finally, the blood vessels reopen, causing a local “flushing” phenomenon, which turns the fingers and toes red. This sequence (white to blue to red), most often occurring due to exposure to cold temperatures, is characteristic of RP.
A secondary form of the disorder, known as Raynaud's disease, affects a small number of individuals and is usually found in association with another underlying systemic disorder. The symptoms are similar to RP, however, they tend to be more severe, and in rare instances, tissues may break down to form an ulcer. Your podiatrist is an excellent source for diagnosis and treatment.
People with Raynaud's phenomenon or Raynaud's disease should take extra precautions to protect themselves from cold exposure.
Keep Your Feet Fit
When starting your workout, remember these tips to keep your feet safe and comfortable.
| 1. Wear shoes designed for the exercise or sport - Athletic shoes that support your arch and cushion the heel are best to wear. Custom orthotics may also help provide the extra support you may need. Make sure you have your feet measured and wear the proper size for the best comfort and fit. | |
2. Start new workouts gradually - Be sure to stretch or warm up for your workout and start new exercise routines gradually. We recommend increasing your exercise intensity by only 10 percent each week. If your feet do get sore, use rest, ice, compression and elevation (R.I.C.E.).
3. Protect your feet from bacteria - Sweaty shoes and public showers at the gym are breeding grounds for bacteria, including resistant strains like MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Never go barefoot while in public areas and be sure to cover cuts and cracks in the skin or ingrown toenails to help keep out the germs. If you have a cut or scrape that gets infected and it's not healing in a timely manner, don't hesitate to call our office to have it checked out.
For more detailed information on our services visit www.sjfeet.com, www.sanjosepodiatrist.net and www.sjfootandankle.com. You can also contact us by phone: (408) 358-6234 or via email: info@sjfeet.com.
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This patient information newsletter is courtesy of www.FootHealthFacts.org |
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