In clinic, we see all varieties of problems affecting patients feet and legs and many patients have symptoms and foot problems consistent with vascular disease. Frequently, I see localized changes to the color of their skin on their legs and feet. These colors can tell us a lot about circulation.

• White or grey indicates acute vascular occlusion.
• Red and warm foot is a sign of early injury.
• A red and cool foot (dependant rubor) is a sign of peripheral vascular disease and not infection.
• Purple indicates loss of adequate blood supply. The most common cause of the purple toe is from plaque being dislodged from large vessels and getting stuck in the smaller vessels.
• Black means the tissue is dying and gangrene is present.

If you develop a foot wound, you should also be highly suspicious of developing circulatory problems in other parts in your body that will also need attention. As podiatrists, we’re happy you come to get your feet evaluated, but you should also have your other organ systems checked. This can be done by your primary care provider but may require a specialist such as a cardiologist, ophthalmologist, or optometrist, dentist, and if necessary, a kidney specialist who can evaluate those other systems to be sure that they are functioning properly. Don’t ignore color changes to your feet and legs. These are signs of problems that need your attention right away.

-drhinkes