Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Evaluation

Poor circulation in the legs and feet is more than just discomfort. It can be a sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where the arteries become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to your lower extremities. PAD often develops gradually and may not show symptoms until it becomes serious, which makes early detection critical for preventing complications like ulcers, infections, or even amputation in severe cases.

At our office, we offer a simple, non-invasive test called the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) to screen for PAD. This quick evaluation compares the blood pressure in your ankle to the blood pressure in your arm. Significant differences between the two may indicate blocked or narrowed arteries. The ABI test is painless, fast, and highly effective at identifying circulation issues before they become more serious.

PAD is especially common in individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of smoking. If you’ve noticed leg pain when walking, numbness in your feet, or wounds that are slow to heal, it may be time to get evaluated. Even if you don’t have obvious symptoms, PAD screening can offer peace of mind and help us catch potential problems early.

By identifying PAD early, we can recommend the right steps to protect your overall health. These may include lifestyle changes, medications, or referrals to a vascular specialist. A PAD evaluation is a smart, proactive step in taking care of your feet and your long-term well-being.