Poor circulation in the feet typically occurs when there is a blockage in the arteries. This common circulatory problem is known as peripheral artery disease (PAD), and it usually affects the extremities, more commonly the legs and the feet. PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, or the buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries. Less common causes of PAD are blood clots in the arteries, injury to the limbs, and unusual anatomy of the muscles and ligaments.