When to get help

See a doctor if you have leg pain that consistently occurs with walking and stops with rest (a hallmark of peripheral artery disease), a leg or foot wound that won't heal, sudden numbness or a cold, pale limb (which can be a medical emergency), or if circulation symptoms are accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath. Poor circulation can be a marker of underlying cardiovascular disease and should be medically evaluated, not just self-treated.