Circulation - PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease)
If you've been noticing that you have cramps in your legs when you walk or exercise, Ozark Foot & Ankle would like to see you for an examination. You may be dealing with peripheral artery disease or PAD. There is no reason that you should live with the discomfort and pain related to this disease if you don't have to. Our
podiatrist in Fayetteville will diagnose you and offer treatment options and lifestyle recommendations that can significantly improve how you feel.
Podiatrist in Fayetteville
PAD is caused when plaque builds up in your arteries. What exactly is plaque? It's a mixture of cholesterol, calcium, and other materials. This plaque accumulates inside your arteries, clinging to the walls and reducing the flow of blood that gets to your legs. This sluggish blood flow means that your leg muscles don't get blood when they need it the most and this leads to the cramps that you feel during any physical exertion. It's possible to have PAD and not have any symptoms to alert you to it. Cramps, tightness, aching or a squeezing in any part of the leg or the buttocks, typically during or after you have exercised. Often, these symptoms will occur at a similar point each time, such as when you have walked a particular distance or have worked out for a certain amount of time. The pain will usually subside when you stop the activity. As PAD progresses, however, you may have pain in your foot or toe even when you're not exercising. As part of the diagnostic process, our
podiatrist in Fayetteville will do a consultation that includes your medical history.
During the physical examination, your pulse will be checked at various points in your leg. This is because it's a good indicator of how strong your blood flow is. If your pulse is weak or even undetectable in one or more areas, this is a sign that PAD may be present. You may also be asked to exercise. The color of your foot will be evaluated both before and after to gain valuable clues into how well blood is flowing into your legs and feet. Another helpful test is called the ankle-brachial index and it compares the blood pressure in your arms to that of your legs. Though these and other tests that may be required, our
podiatrist in Fayetteville will be able to make a diagnosis.
2828 E. Millennium Pl., Ste. 2
Fayetteville, Arkansas, 72703
479-935-1004
By Ozark Foot & Ankle PLC
August 31, 2014
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