Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, manifests differently among individuals, with approximately 25% experiencing typical symptoms, over half displaying atypical signs, and 20% reporting no symptoms. Despite this variability, all PAD patients face heightened cardiovascular risks. Left untreated, PAD can lead to complications such as ulcers, infections, and even limb amputation. Common symptoms include intermittent muscle pain, characterized by leg pain or cramping during movement that subsides with rest, often felt in the calf but may occur in other areas. Additional signs encompass diminished toenail and leg hair growth, temperature discrepancies between feet, skin discoloration, and numbness. In severe cases, critical limb ischemia manifests as pain at rest. Ulcers or slow-healing wounds on the legs, feet, or toes signify advanced PAD stages, potentially leading to severe complications if neglected. Early recognition and treatment are vital for managing PAD and preventing associated complications. If you have PAD, it is strongly suggested that you make regular appointments with a chiropodist for examinations and care.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a serious condition that can increase your risk of having a stroke or heart attack. If you have symptoms of PAD, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the lower limbs narrow and harden due to a buildup of arterial plaque. PAD causes a reduction in blood flow to the legs and other extremities.
Symptoms
Often, people with PAD experience no symptoms, especially in the early stages. If PAD continues to worsen, the first sign of PAD may be claudication, pain and cramping in the legs while walking, caused by the reduction of blood supply to the muscles of the legs.
Other potential symptoms include:
Numbness or weakness in the legs
Coldness in the legs or feet
Slow-healing sores or wounds
Skin discoloration or hair loss on the legs
Slow growth of toenails
Diagnosis
Most often chiropodists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to the blood pressure in your ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Vascular tests look at the blood flow in the legs and are generally painless and non-invasive.
Treatment
Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help limit further arterial plaque buildup. Taking your prescribed medications can reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack. In some cases, surgery may be required to improve blood flow.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
