Poor circulation is an uncomfortable condition that not only causes cold extremities, but it can also lead to a variety of other problems such as muscle cramping, numbness, and throbbing pains in the limbs. While often associated with older people, poor circulation can be caused by various diseases and conditions.
In this article, we look at the symptoms, causes, and treatment of poor circulation and the functional role that chiropractic care can play in alleviating the condition.
Symptoms of Poor Circulation
It can be tricky to know whether you have poor circulation but being aware of the critical signs and symptoms can be the first step towards recovery. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
- Swelling in the feet or ankles (fluid retention)
- Cold hands and feet
- Joint or muscle cramping
- Skin discoloration
- Varicose veins
- Headaches
- Memory loss
- Fatigue
- Digestive changes
- Ulcers in the legs and feet
- Hair loss due to decreased blood flow
Causes of Poor Circulation
There are several causes of poor circulation, so it’s best to see a medical professional to get it diagnosed. Below are a few primary causes of this condition.
- Atherosclerosis and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Atherosclerosis is a condition that occurs when plaque builds up inside the arteries, clogging up blood flow. Once it develops in the upper and lower limbs, it is referred to as PAD, which results in a narrowing of the blood vessels and arteries and leads to poor circulation. PAD is most often found in people who smoke or are over 50, but it can also occur in younger people.
- Diabetes
Diabetes is known to cause poor circulation. As sugar levels remain high throughout the body, they damage blood vessels and cause plaque build-up. Diabetes can also cause nerve damage which affects heart rate and blood pressure, which also influences circulation.
- Raynaud’s Disease
People with chronically cold hands and feet may have Raynaud’s disease. This condition causes a narrowing of the small arteries in your hands and toes, resulting in decreased blood flow. Women or people who live in colder climates are more likely to develop the condition.
- Blood Clots
Unsurprisingly, blood clots result in poor circulation throughout the body, restricting blood to the organs or tissues. Clots can either partially or wholly block the circulation of blood and can occur anywhere in the body.
Chiropractic Treatment of Poor Circulation
There are different treatments for poor circulation, but perhaps one of the best in chiropractic care. A trained chiropractor, like from Brickell chiropractor clinic SnapCrack, can identify restricted areas of the spine and joints and then release any pressure to improve blood flow. Their understanding of how blood flow works in the body in relation to muscles, joints, and spinal movements means that they are uniquely positioned to aid and treat circulatory issues.
The manipulations and treatments by a chiropractor are known to improve circulation in the following ways:
- Treating joint restrictions and dysfunctions of the spine
- Releasing pressure from nerves to promote blood flow
- Manipulating bones and muscles to improve circulation
Poor circulation doesn’t need to be a life sentence. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above and are seeking treatment, stop by SnapCrack, a walk-in chiropractor in Brickell.
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