Identifying the Signs

PAD often creeps up quietly, manifesting in your lower extremities. You might notice symptoms such as cramping, fatigue, or pain in your muscles while walking or climbing stairs, which is a condition medically referred to as claudication. Other signs include noticeable changes in the color of your feet, decreased hair growth on the lower legs, and slower nail growth. Perhaps one of the most alarming symptoms is the development of sores or wounds on your feet and toes that heal sluggishly or not at all. These signs are your body’s way of signaling that your feet aren’t receiving enough blood and, consequently, the oxygen and nutrients they need to function properly.

A Closer Look at Diagnosis

Diagnosing PAD involves a series of evaluations that begin with understanding your medical history and conducting a physical examination. One of the hallmark tests used by a foot specialist is the ankle-brachial index or ABI. An ABI ratio that falls below the normal range indicates restricted blood flow, a classic sign of PAD. Additional diagnostic tools might include Doppler and ultrasound imaging, angiography, and magnetic resonance angiography. Each offer a closer look at the arterial flow and can pinpoint areas of obstruction.

Treatment Strategies for Managing PAD

Once diagnosed, treating PAD focuses on alleviating symptoms and halting the progression of the disease. Lifestyle changes are often the first line of defense, so quitting smoking, managing diabetes, and exercising regularly can improve symptoms. Medical treatments may include medications to improve blood flow and prevent blood clots. In more severe cases, procedures such as stenting, bypass surgery, or angioplasty might be necessary to open or reroute blocked arteries. An experienced foot doctor will work closely with every patient to develop a plan of treatment to address their specific needs and improve overall foot health and mobility.