Poor circulation in the legs and feet is more common than many people realize — and it can be a sign of underlying vascular problems that deserve attention. When blood flow is reduced, your body struggles to deliver oxygen and nutrients to muscles and tissues, which can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even long-term complications if left untreated.

At GLMI, we help patients across Buffalo, Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria detect circulatory issues early through advanced vascular ultrasound and diagnostic imaging. Understanding the early warning signs of poor circulation — and getting the right imaging tests — can make a major difference in your vascular health.

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What Causes Poor Circulation in the Legs and Feet?

Poor circulation occurs when blood flow through your arteries or veins becomes restricted. This can be caused by a number of factors, most commonly related to vascular disease. Common causes include:

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Plaque buildup in the arteries narrows blood flow to the legs and feet, leading to pain or fatigue when walking.
• Venous insufficiency: Damaged or weakened vein valves make it harder for blood to return to the heart, causing swelling, heaviness, or varicose veins.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar damages small blood vessels, reducing circulation and increasing the risk of ulcers or infections.
• Blood clots: A clot in a deep vein (deep vein thrombosis) can block blood flow and cause pain or swelling.
• Smoking, obesity, or sedentary lifestyle: These factors contribute to reduced vascular elasticity and poor circulation over time.

Regardless of the cause, early detection through imaging is key to preventing complications and improving overall vascular function.

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Common Warning Signs of Poor Circulation

The symptoms of poor circulation in the legs and feet often start subtly. Paying attention to these early signs can help you take action before more serious issues develop:

• Cold feet or toes: Persistent coldness may indicate reduced blood flow.
• Tingling or numbness: A “pins and needles” sensation can signal nerve irritation caused by poor oxygen supply.
• Leg pain or cramping: Especially during activity or at night — a hallmark of peripheral artery disease.
• Swelling (edema): Often caused by venous insufficiency or fluid buildup due to poor return circulation.
• Discoloration: Bluish or reddish skin tone can indicate poor oxygen delivery to tissues.
• Slow-healing sores: Wounds or ulcers that take a long time to heal may signal circulatory or diabetic complications.
• Visible varicose or spider veins: A sign that vein valves are struggling to push blood upward toward the heart.

Even mild or occasional symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. Imaging can help identify whether poor circulation is the result of arterial narrowing, venous reflux, or another condition entirely.

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How Imaging Helps Diagnose Circulatory Issues

Imaging allows doctors to see what’s happening inside your blood vessels — revealing blockages, narrowing, or valve malfunctions that can lead to poor circulation. At GLMI, our imaging specialists use a variety of technologies to pinpoint the cause and severity of vascular problems.

1. Vascular Ultrasound

Ultrasound is the first-line imaging tool for evaluating poor circulation in the legs and feet. It uses sound waves to create live images of blood flow, helping identify narrowed arteries, blood clots, or faulty vein valves. It’s non-invasive, radiation-free, and provides immediate results.

2. Low-Dose CT Angiography

CT angiography creates detailed 3D images of the arteries and veins, allowing doctors to see blockages or plaque buildup in remarkable detail. Low-dose technology ensures accurate imaging while minimizing radiation exposure. This test is particularly useful for evaluating advanced peripheral artery disease (PAD).

3. Nuclear Medicine Scans

Nuclear medicine imaging measures how well blood flows through the body and can detect reduced circulation at the organ or tissue level. It’s often used in complex cases where functional insights are needed in addition to structural images.

4. PET/CT Imaging

PET/CT scans combine structural and metabolic imaging to assess how tissues are functioning. In patients with chronic vascular disease or diabetes, this can help identify areas at risk of tissue damage due to reduced oxygen delivery.

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When to Seek Imaging for Circulatory Concerns

You don’t need to wait for severe symptoms to get tested. In fact, early imaging can reveal vascular problems before they cause noticeable discomfort. Talk to your doctor about scheduling a vascular study if you:

• Experience recurring leg or foot pain, even if mild
• Notice coldness, color changes, or swelling in your legs
• Have diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure
• Have a family history of vascular disease
• Smoke or have smoked in the past
• Spend long hours sitting or standing at work

Early detection allows your care team to implement lifestyle changes, medications, or vascular treatments before permanent damage occurs.

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Why Early Detection Matters

Poor circulation doesn’t just cause discomfort — it can lead to serious complications over time. Without proper blood flow, tissues in the legs and feet can become damaged, leading to ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, tissue loss. Reduced circulation is also closely linked to heart disease and stroke.

With advanced imaging from GLMI, vascular issues can be diagnosed early and managed effectively. Identifying circulation problems before they progress helps patients avoid complications and maintain mobility and quality of life.

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How to Improve Circulation Naturally

While imaging helps detect problems, lifestyle choices play an equally important role in maintaining healthy circulation. Here are a few simple habits that can make a big difference:

• Stay active — regular walking or cycling helps boost blood flow.
• Elevate your legs periodically to reduce swelling.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fats.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Wear compression socks if recommended by your doctor.
• Quit smoking and manage blood pressure and cholesterol.

Combining these strategies with regular checkups and imaging ensures your vascular health stays on track.

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Why Western New York Patients Choose GLMI

GLMI is proud to be a trusted leader in vascular and diagnostic imaging. Our Veins and Venous Disease services and vascular ultrasound capabilities provide patients with accurate, non-invasive diagnostics that lead to better outcomes.

With locations in Williamsville, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and Cambria, GLMI makes advanced vascular imaging accessible to patients across Western New York.

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Take a Step Toward Better Circulation

Don’t ignore the signs of poor circulation — your legs and feet can reveal important clues about your overall health. With the help of advanced imaging at GLMI, you can identify the cause of your symptoms early and get the right treatment plan to restore healthy blood flow.

Contact GLMI today to schedule a vascular ultrasound or consultation. Taking a proactive step now can prevent serious complications later — and keep you moving comfortably for years to come.

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Medical Disclaimer

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider about your specific symptoms and treatment options.