Blue Toes
Treatment for Blue Toes in Minneapolis

Blue toes are a common, if somewhat unappetizing, occurrence caused by a variety of circulation problems.  In most cases, the causes are fairly apparent, and discernible based on when the toes turn blue.  For example, runners see blue toes as something of a badge of honor--an indication of pain tolerance and thousands of miles run.  If your toes are turning blue after you run, however, it’s more likely you need a new pair of shoes.  Poorly fit shoes are one of the most common causes of blue toes, and one of the easiest to diagnose and prevent.  By wearing the wrong shoes, a marathoner isn’t just showing how tough he is, he also might be causing serious local circulation issues.

Another group of people get blue toes from going in the cold.  This is typically caused by Reynaud’s Syndrome and other cold-sensitive circulation problems.  Again the solution is simple: don’t let the feet get cold.  If more socks won’t fit inside your boots, get bigger and more comfortable boots, or warmer thermal stockings.  Keeping the feet warm and comfortable, inside properly fitting shoes, will eliminate blue toes in most patients.

If the blue toes in question are not immediately linked to shoe fit or the cold, they may be caused by a wide variety of other circulation issues.  Blue toes may be a symptom of both very minor local circulation issues and more widespread and serious problems.  If your blue toes do not appear to have an obvious cause, see a podiatrist or general practitioner for help with diagnosis and treatment.