Ischaemia is the hardening and obstruction of the blood vessels, reducing the blood supply to the legs and feet. The feet are more vulnerable to damage due to poor circulation. A good blood supply is needed for healthy skin and wound healing.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ischaemia are:
- cold, pale, numb or burning feet
- loss of hairs on toes, feet and legs
- discolouration marks on feet and toes
- delayed wound healing which can become infected
- pain or cramp in the calf, thigh or bottom when walking or sitting at night
- fragile skin that bruises or tears
- pressure areas can develop due to less fatty padding under the heel and ball of foot
- ulceration or breakdowns occur due to pressure and friction on prominent areas
If any injury occurs, however minor, it is potentially serious and needs to be dressed with a sterile dressing and reviewed by a health care professional.
If you have any problems with your feet, contact your local podiatry department or GP for advice immediately.
Contact podiatry foot protection
Document control
- Document reference: DP7065/9489/10.12.
- Date reviewed: April 2017.
Page last reviewed: October 17, 2024
Next review due: October 17, 2025
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