Raynaud’s syndrome is a condition which causes smaller arteries that supply blood to areas such as the skin of the toes to constrict in response to cold weather or stress. The constriction results in a temporary loss of blood flow to the affected areas, which may become cold, numb, or discolored. If you have Raynaud’s syndrome, it can be managed. Since cold temperatures are a known trigger of Raynaud’s, it is recommended that you protect your feet from the cold by wearing warm socks and shoes. Avoid wearing socks and shoes that are too tight, as these can further restrict your circulation. Regular exercise may improve circulation as well. For more information about managing Raynaud’s syndrome when it affects your feet, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM of Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, specializes in caring for the feet, ankles, and lower legs. These areas of the body play a vital role in balance and movement, yet they are often overlooked until pain or injury occurs. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Included are bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, fractures, arthritis, and sports injuries. They also manage diabetic foot concerns, wound care, and preventative screenings to keep small issues from becoming serious problems. Visiting a DPM is not only about treating pain, but also about improving mobility and overall quality of life. This type of doctor can provide custom orthotics, surgical care when needed, and guidance on proper footwear. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, reduced range of motion, or any changes in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a professional diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM from Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Skin splitting under the toes is a common problem that can cause discomfort and make walking difficult. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot are frequent culprits, leading to peeling, itching, and painful cracks. Excessive dryness can also weaken the skin, especially in dry environments or in those who do not moisturize regularly. Wearing ill-fitting shoes that create friction and pressure may further contribute to skin breakdown. A podiatrist can identify the underlying cause, prescribe anti-fungal medications if needed, and recommend skin care strategies and proper footwear. If you are experiencing painful splitting of the skin under your toes, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist to receive effective treatment and restore comfort to your feet.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM of Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form on the skin, often caused by friction, heat, or irritation. On the feet, blisters commonly appear due to wearing ill-fitting shoes, excessive walking or running, or prolonged exposure to moisture. Symptoms include raised, fluid-filled bumps that may be clear or cloudy, accompanied by redness, pain, and tenderness. Blisters can feel tight and uncomfortable, making walking difficult. If left untreated, blisters can rupture, leading to possible infection or increased pain. A podiatrist can help diagnose the cause of persistent or severe blisters and recommend appropriate treatment. Treatments may include protecting the blister with specialized dressings, draining larger blisters safely, and addressing the underlying issues such as footwear or gait problems. Preventive advice and care can reduce the risk of future blisters. If blisters are frequent, painful, or show signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure proper care and healing.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM of Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.