As a matter of fact, the most common cause of bad blood circulation in legs is the condition called peripheral vascular disease. The health problems of the blood vessels found on the heart periphery or outside it are categorized as PVD. It happens if plaque appears on the peripheral arteries walls (atherosclerosis). The plaque causes hardening of the arteries. This prevents blood from flowing efficiently via the veins and arteries. Peripheral vascular disease is among the main reasons for poor circulation in legs. Individuals, who smoke, follow unhealthy diet are more prone to having poor circulation. There are several diseases which can cause poor blood circulation in legs.

• Obesity
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Phlebitis
• Varicose veins
• Diabetes
• Aneurysms
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• Pregnancy

Symptoms
Poor blood circulation can manifest in different symptoms. Usually the first symptom is cramping pain in the legs often followed by constant fatigue and occasional numbness in the feet and legs. Walking, running and even moving can cause severe pain. Discoloration is also a sign of poor circulation. Blue and black spots might occur on the legs, in particular on the calf muscles. Swollen feet or swelling of the whole leg are also symptoms of poor circulation in legs. Some people also report having cold feet and hands. Deep vein thrombosis which is the blood clot development in the veins might also happen in people with poor circulation.

Treatment options
First of all it is necessary to get the right diagnosis. For this end many experts recommend such tests as comparing the measurements of blood pressure in the legs and arms, arteries angiography, CT angiography, Doppler ultrasound, or magnetic resonance angiography. The type of treatment generally depends on the seriousness of vein and artery blockage. Mild circulatory problems are commonly cured with analgesia, aspirin, pentoxifylline and heparinoid creams together with aerobic exercises. Severe conditions require surgical procedures like angioplastry, peripheral artery bypass surgery, endarterectomy, revascularization, and atherectomy. Among other treatments for poor circulation in legs there are medications like cilostazol and physical therapy, which work to expand the arteries affected.

Poor circulation in legs, if left untreated can result in amputation of the limb. If a person suffers from any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is necessary to seek medical help immediately. Apart from medications prescribed by your doctor, you will also need to perform several lifestyle changes. These will include following a diet high in fiber and low in fats, controlling your weight, smoking reduction and regular exercise regime. All these will help you relieve pain and swelling and will stimulate faster healing process.