Cold
extremities are usually the result of poor circulation. Poor
circulation can be caused from high blood pressure, obesity, arterial
blockage, or poor heart function. If the heart is in good working order
and there is no appreciable build up of plaque in the arteries, the
coldness may be due to the constriction of the blood vessels that
supply the hands and feet from stress.
Stress
can
cause constriction of the blood vessels, which can decrease circulation
to your hands and feet. Chiropractic manipulation, nutritional support,
and relaxation therapy can help if this is the case. Your Doctor of
Chiropractic can take a careful history and perform a simple
examination to see if too much stress could be the underlying cause of
your condition. Many patients have benefited from chiropractic
manipulation and associated therapies such as massage and acupressure
to relieve their stress and improve the circulation to their hands and
feet.
If the apparent cause does not
seem to be
directly related to stress, lab tests can be ordered to see if the
problem is coming from an underactive thyroid or possibly an underlying
condition such as diabetes. The heart and the arteries can be checked
to see if the problem is coming directly from within the circulatory
system. Habits like smoking also have to be considered. In extreme
cases, smoking can lead to a condition known as Raynaud’s
phenomenon, which causes sever lack of blood flow to the hands and
fingers..
If it is determined that
your cold hands
and feet are the result of stress, your doctor of chiropractic can
begin a regimen of stress reduction treatment. Manipulation to the
spine and stress reduction therapies such as moist heat, acupressure,
and massage therapy may also be recommended. With treatment and a
well-constructed program of proper exercise, correct diet and
nutritional supplementation, you should be able to enjoy the benefits
of improved circulation and a more relaxed approach to living.