Smoking has well-known harmful effects on the heart and lungs, but the harmful products in cigarette smoke also affect the health of the feet. Many podiatrists are familiar with these consequences and warn smokers accordingly. Learn more about the adverse effects of smoking on your feet and why quitting is essential.
1. Smoking interferes with proper blood circulation
Smoking irritates blood vessels and impairs proper blood flow. This reduces oxygen supply to tissues and restricts blood reaching extremities like your feet.
This oxygen deprivation can cause multiple issues requiring podiatric care:
- Arteritis of the legs
- Muscle cramps
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
- Swelling and inflammation of the feet
2. Cigarette smoking slows healing of your feet
Podiatrists observe that smokers experience slower healing after foot surgery compared to non-smokers. The restricted blood flow hinders nutrient delivery essential for recovery.
As a result, healing of injuries and post-operative wounds takes longer, increasing risks of complications. Patients are advised to reduce or quit smoking before, during, and after treatment to promote better recovery.
3. Smoking can cause neuropathy
Nervous system problems often accompany circulation issues caused by smoking. Neuropathy involves damage to peripheral motor and sensory nerves. It is especially detrimental for diabetics, whose condition worsens as smoking slows insulin production.
This leads to microvascular deficiencies that aggravate neuropathy, causing symptoms like:
- Tingling or numbness in the feet
- Inflammation and muscle cramps
- Postural issues
Smokers, especially diabetic patients, should closely monitor these neuropathic signs.
4. Smokers are more likely to get tendonitis or bursitis
A study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) shows smokers are 1.5 times more prone to Achilles tendonitis or heel bursitis.
Cigarette smoke damages elastin, reducing the elasticity of tendons and ligaments, increasing risk of overuse injuries, especially in athletes.
Common symptoms include:
- Tendon swelling or hypersensitivity
- Heel redness or swelling
- Muscle stiffness and skin lesions
- Difficulty walking
These conditions may also cause corns and calluses on the feet. Consultation with a podiatrist is recommended if symptoms appear.
PiedRéseau, podiatrists who adapt to the reality of smokers
Quitting smoking is challenging, but PiedRéseau podiatrists offer effective treatments tailored to smokers’ specific foot health issues.
With over forty clinics across Quebec, PiedRéseau ensures personalized care focused on comfort and foot health.
Find the clinic nearest you to receive expert podiatric care adapted to your needs.