If you live in a northern U.S. state, you’re likely used to being cold a few months out of the year. Some people claim that they always feel cold, no matter the weather. But what if your hands and feet are always cold?

When your hands and feet are cold, it’s easy to brush it off as “no big deal.” But if they consistently feel cold, there may be something deeper that requires health care assistance. While having cold extremities isn’t always a call for concern, they might be a symptom of a condition that should be addressed and treated before it worsens.

Why are your hands and feet always cold?

Many of the potential causes for cold feet and hands have to do with blood circulation. By understanding the potential reasons for having cold hands and feet, you can gain insight into whether you need further treatment or a possible diagnosis.

Here are possible explanations for feet and hands that always feel cold:

• Anemia — There’s a common, treatable blood disorder called anemia, which is characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells. These blood cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that provides the body with oxygen. Cold hands and feet are common symptoms of anemia, as the extremities aren’t receiving enough oxygen. Several types of anemia are caused by nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 and iron.
• Diabetes — If you have diabetes, it’s common to have poor blood circulation due to inflammation or plaque formation in the blood vessels, which can lead to cold hands and feet. This chronic disease also increases the risk of having narrowed arteries or heart disease, which can also impact your extremities. 
• Nerve damage — It’s possible to develop nerve damage, known as neuropathy, that can cause cold hands and feet. You may also experience prickling or burning sensations in the extremities. Nerve damage can impact the body’s ability to regulate temperatures because the nerves aren’t able to detect the coldness and send the proper signals to the brain.

If you’re consistently experiencing cold hands and feet, talk to your doctor to determine if you have a concern that needs to be addressed.

Franklin Rehabilitation can help you alleviate constantly cold hands and feet

Blood circulation is one of the root issues of having cold hands and feet. It’s also an aspect of your physical health that can be improved with physical therapy treatment. At Franklin Rehabilitation, we can help you boost your blood circulation with techniques including targeted exercises, dry needling and manual therapy. By focusing on the root issue, you can warm up your hands and feet in the process. 

Call us or request an appointment today to address your cold hands and feet.