Non-Invasive P.A.D.

Schedule Your Appointment

What is P.A.D.?

Peripheral Arterial Disease, “poor circulation”, is the restriction of blood flow in the arteries of the leg. Arteries become narrowed by plaque within the walls of the artery. Plaque is the accumulation of cholesterol that builds up on arteries.

Patient Education Image

Signs of P.A.D. Include:
  • Leg cramping that occurs either when lying down or walking (and sometimes continuously).
  • General leg weakness or numbness
  • Unusually cold feet or legs
  • Sores or superficial wounds that take longer than expected to heal
  • A distinct change in the color of the skin of the leg
  • A loss of hair
  • Changing in toenail integrity (color and thickness)

Factors that can increase the likelihood of P.A.D.
  • Being over the age of 50
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • High Blood Pressure
  • High Cholesterol
  • Familial history of P.A.D., heart disease, or otherwise circulation issues
  • Sedentary lifestyle

Treatment
  • Treatment for P.A.D. includes a number of non-invasive solutions. Chief among these solutions is a lifestyle change. This can include a dietary change coupled with a regular exercise regiment. Medications may also be used to improve blood flow to encourage recovery in the leg and affected areas. Regular massage can improve blood flow and sensation in the affected areas.
  • P.A.D. can also cause issues into related areas like the foot. The reduction in blood flow can cause further issues with the complications of diabetes.

P.A.D. requires continuous treatment to insure that complications don’t occur again
  • Washing and maintaining the health and cleanliness of your feet is paramount. Warm, not hot to boiling, water and a mild soap can be used to clean the foot and toes.
  • Monitoring of your weight can also help with improving the conditions surrounding P.A.D. Excess weight can cause additional stress on your lower body and can impede blood flow to necessary areas of treatment.
  • Reduce harmful substances - this includes tobacco and alcohol substances.