Peripheral Arterial Disease (Poor Circulation)

By: Dr. Jesseka Kaldenberg-Leppert

Understanding Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAOD)

Peripheral arterial disease (PAOD) refers to the obstruction of a peripheral artery, particularly in the lower extremities. The primary causes of PAOD include atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque within the artery), blood clots, compression, and inflammation. PAOD is a progressive condition, making early recognition crucial to prevent complications such as ulcers or amputation.

Assessment of PAOD at the Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa, your podiatrist will evaluate your feet for signs of PAOD during each visit. This assessment includes asking questions about any pain you experience in your feet, particularly during walking or at night. The podiatrist will also check your pulses, assess your capillary refill time, and examine the overall appearance of your feet. Below is a detailed list of what your foot and ankle doctor will be looking for:

1. Generalized Foot or Leg Pain: Pain experienced while walking.

2. Intermittent Claudication: Pain in your legs, ankles, or feet that forces you to stop and rest during walking. You can resume walking after resting.

3. Rest Pain: Foot pain or cramps that wake you from sleep, relieved by dangling your feet over the bed or walking.

4. Pedal Pulses: Your doctor will check for the two major arteries in your foot using touch or a Doppler device. If these pulses are weak or absent, it may indicate arterial disease.

5. Capillary Refill Time: By pressing on the tip of your toe to expel blood, your doctor will observe how long it takes for blood to return. A prolonged refill time can suggest arterial disease.

6. Pedal Hair: The presence or absence of hair growth on your feet will be assessed. Lack of hair may indicate arterial issues.

7. Coloration of Your Foot: Unusual colors such as red, purple, blue, or white instead of a normal skin tone may signal arterial disease.

8. Temperature of Feet: Cold feet can be a sign of arterial disease.

   
   

Next Steps in Diagnosis and Treatment

Based on the combination of these factors, your podiatrist may recommend further studies to assess blood flow to your feet. These tests could include ultrasound or a series of blood pressure measurements taken along your legs, ankles, feet, and toes. After these assessments, your foot and ankle doctor will discuss the results and outline the next steps in your treatment plan, which may include a referral to a vascular surgeon.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have any concerns about your feet, the specialists at Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa are here to help. We invite you to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns and evaluate your feet and ankles. Call us today at 515-639-3775.