Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Testing

What is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a circulatory disorder characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood to the limbs, particularly the legs and feet. It occurs due to the buildup of fatty deposits, known as plaque, within the arterial walls, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the affected areas. Without adequate circulation, tissues in the legs and feet may suffer from insufficient nourishment, resulting in discomfort, pain, and potential complications.

What Are The Symptoms?

People with peripheral artery disease may experience various symptoms, which can vary in severity. Common signs and symptoms of PAD include:

• Cramping, pain, or heaviness in the legs during physical activity (intermittent claudication)
• Leg pain that subsides with rest
• Numbness or weakness in the legs
• Coldness or discoloration of the feet or legs
• Slow-healing wounds or sores on the legs or feet
• Weakened pulse in the legs or feet
• Erectile dysfunction in men
• Hair loss or slower hair growth on the legs

Left untreated, PAD can cause more serious complications like ulcers, bleeding, and a life-threatening condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

Who Is At Risk?

Certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing peripheral artery disease. The following factors contribute to the likelihood of PAD:

• Advanced age (over 50 years old)
• Smoking or tobacco use
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol levels (hyperlipidemia)
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Family history of PAD, heart disease, or stroke
• Sedentary lifestyle
• History of cardiovascular disease

What Can I Expect During The Test?

During the PAD testing procedure, our skilled podiatrist will utilize advanced screening technologies, including the PADnet® device, to assess the blood flow and circulation in your legs and feet. The PADnet® device is a non-invasive and painless tool that uses blood pressure cuffs and sensors to measure blood pressure and blood flow in different areas of the lower extremities. The test involves the following steps:

1. Placement of blood pressure cuffs around your legs and ankles.
2. Inflation and deflation of the cuffs to measure blood pressure and blood flow.
3. Recording of the results by the PADnet® device, providing immediate information about your vascular health.
4. Evaluation of the test results by our podiatrist to determine the presence and severity of peripheral artery disease.

The screening process is quick, comfortable, and does not require any needles or invasive procedures.

What Can I Expect After The Test?

After the PAD testing, our podiatrist will analyze the results to assess your vascular condition. If peripheral artery disease is detected, our experienced team will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medication management, vascular procedures, or referral to a vascular specialist, depending on the severity of the disease. Early detection through PAD testing allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of complications and improving your overall vascular health.

You can book a consultation today by scheduling an appointment online or calling us at (561) 203-9285.

We are looking forward to helping you with all your foot and ankle needs!