Items filtered by date: February 2026

Poor circulation in the feet occurs when blood flow to the lower extremities is reduced, making it harder for oxygen and nutrients to reach the tissues. People may notice coldness, numbness, tingling, cramping, or skin that appears pale or discolored. Common causes include diabetes, peripheral artery disease, smoking, high blood pressure, and prolonged sitting or standing. Aging can also affect circulation, especially when combined with reduced activity levels or underlying medical conditions. Improving circulation often involves consistent movement throughout the day. Walking, ankle rotations, and gentle stretching help activate the muscles that support blood flow. Elevating the feet when resting, maintaining healthy hydration, and wearing shoes that do not restrict the forefoot or ankle can also be beneficial. Addressing chronic conditions and avoiding tobacco play an important role in long-term improvement. If foot circulation problems persist, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

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 offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever’s disease is a common growth-related heel condition that affects active children and adolescents during periods of rapid development. It occurs when repetitive stress and tension irritate the growth plate at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. Causes often include running, jumping, tight calf muscles and overuse during sports activities. Risk factors may include high activity levels, wearing improper footwear, flat feet, or rapid growth spurts. A podiatrist can help by providing an accurate diagnosis recommending activity modification, custom orthotics, stretching, guidance, and supportive footwear to reduce strain on the heel. Early care can ease pain, improve mobility, and prevent ongoing discomfort. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankle osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage lining the ankle joint wears down, limiting smooth motion and shock absorption. Symptoms include deep ankle pain that increases with walking or standing, and stiffness after periods of rest. Swelling, reduced flexibility, and difficulty maintaining a steady gait are other signs. In later stages, pain may be present even with minimal activity. A podiatrist evaluates ankle osteoarthritis through a detailed history, physical examination, and X-rays. Additional scans may be ordered when needed. Care may involve custom orthotics, supportive ankle braces, medication management, or injections to calm joint irritation. When joint damage becomes severe and daily movement is seriously inhibited, surgery may be considered to improve function and relieve pain. For help dealing with osteoarthritis of the ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Splay foot describes a widening of the front of the foot, caused by loss of the transverse arch and leading to forefoot instability and altered walking mechanics. Splay foot may develop from inherited foot structure, ligament weakness, excess body weight, prior injury, or repeated stress on the mid-foot. As the metatarsal bones spread, people often notice increasing foot width, discomfort when standing or walking, and shoes that feel tight or wear unevenly. Painful calluses beneath the ball of the foot, burning or tingling sensations, fatigue, and a tendency to walk on the outer edge of the foot are common symptoms. Splay foot can contribute to bunions, hammertoes, and strain that affects posture and gait. A podiatrist can evaluate alignment and identify contributing factors. If your toes are widely separated and are causing pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.