How Active Are Your Legs?

P.A.D. occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, reducing blood flow to the legs. This can result in leg muscle pain when walking, disability, amputation, and poor quality of life. Blocked arteries found in people with P.A.D. can be a red flag that other arteries, including those in the heart and brain, may also be blocked – increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

The test for P.A.D. is called the ankle-brachial index, a painless, non-invasive test that compares the blood pressure in the ankles with the blood pressure in the arms. “Poor circulation in the legs – particularly in people with diabetes – is a serious problem,” stated Benjamin W. Weaver, DPM “Without proper blood flow, a minor problem such as a cut or blister may not heal properly and may lead to an infection. If not treated promptly, these problems can result in amputation of a toe, foot, or part of the leg.”