Could it be your circulation?
Poor circulation in the legs can show up in different ways. Some symptoms appear mainly when you walk; others may show up in your feet, skin, or how well a sore heals.
Poor circulation in the legs can show up in different ways. Some symptoms appear mainly when you walk; others may show up in your feet, skin, or how well a sore heals.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) occurs when arteries carrying blood to the legs become narrowed, reducing blood flow. A common pattern is calf, thigh, or buttock discomfort during walking that improves after a few minutes of rest. Some people have other symptoms—or no obvious symptoms at all.
Evaluation may begin with your symptoms, medical history, leg and foot pulses, and an ankle-brachial index (ABI), a simple test that compares blood pressure at the ankle and arm. When appropriate, arterial ultrasound or other vascular imaging can help evaluate blood flow and identify areas of narrowing.
Walking-related leg pain, a foot that stays unusually cold, nighttime or resting foot pain, slow-healing sores, or changes in skin color can be reasons to discuss circulation testing with a healthcare professional. Sudden severe pain, loss of feeling or movement, or a suddenly pale or cold foot requires urgent medical attention.