Peripheral arterial disease affects as many as 8.5 million people in the United States. At Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers, with multiple locations in Sterling Heights, Clinton Township, and Mount Clemens, Michigan, the experienced podiatrists offer diagnostic and preventive care to ensure blood is circulating optimally through your legs and feet. To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for peripheral arterial disease, contact the Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers nearest you today by phone or by using the online booking feature.

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What is peripheral arterial disease?

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a condition that develops when the blood circulation in your legs is restricted. This disease often occurs because of narrowing in the arteries due to the buildup of cholesterol and other substances on the walls of the vessels that supply your feet and legs with blood.

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, peripheral arterial disease can lead to increased risk for heart attack or stroke and may be an indication of a more serious artery disease.

What are the symptoms of peripheral arterial disease?

In the earliest stages of peripheral arterial disease, you may experience no noticeable symptoms. As PAD progresses, your arteries may already have a significant blockage and you may experience symptoms that affect your legs and feet including:

  • Cramping
  • Numbness
  • Weakness
  • Slow-healing sores

You may also notice a discoloration in the skin of your legs and/or feet, as well as in your toenails. Nails may also become thicker as PAD progresses.

What tests diagnose peripheral arterial disease?

If you have symptoms of peripheral arterial disease, it’s important you schedule diagnostic testing at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers right away. You should also discuss preventive testing for PAD if you have a family history of the disease or other risk factors like:

  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • History of smoking
  • Sedentary lifestyle

The team at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers uses noninvasive testing to determine the efficiency of your blood flow, including the ankle-brachial index (ABI) test. This test involves a measurement of the blood pressure in your arm and your ankles for comparison.

What’s the treatment for peripheral arterial disease?

If your diagnostic testing indicates you may have existing peripheral arterial disease, your provider at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers may refer you to a vascular specialist for additional testing.

In some cases, you may need medications to increase blood circulation and prevent dangerous blood clots. Medications may also be necessary if you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol that increases your risk for PAD.

Existing PAD can increase your risk for serious foot and leg conditions, and the team at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers is fully equipped to treat toenail fungal infections, bunions, and ingrown nails that are difficult to treat when you already have arterial disease. The skilled podiatrists also provide guidance for proper foot hygiene to prevent such complications.

When you have risk factors for peripheral arterial disease, your podiatrist may recommend lifestyle changes, like engaging in regular exercise and eating a heart-healthy diet, to prevent arterial damage and heart attack or stroke. They can also provide resources to help you quit smoking for good.

Find out more about treatments for peripheral arterial disease by calling the Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers office nearest you or by requesting an appointment online now.