Vascular Testing, Ankle Brachial Index

WHAT IS P.A.D. ? 

Peripheral Arterial Disease (P.A.D.) occurs when there is a build up of cholesterol and plaque in the arteries of the lower extremities, causing decreased blood flow to the legs and feet.

WHAT IS AN A.B.I. TEST?

A.B.I. or Ankle-Brachial Index is a non-invasive, pain-free test. The exam often takes 15-20 minutes, It feels similar to having your blood pressure taken during your regular check-ups. You will lie down on the exam table.

Pressure cuffs will be wrapped snugly around your arms, above knees, calves and ankles. The technician will inflate the cuffs, and sensors record the pulse waves. Let the technician know if the pressure from the inflated cuffs is uncomfortable.

Your blood pressures will be recorded at your arms and ankles. The ankle-brachial index, known as the ABI, is determined by the ratio between these pressures.

PAD is diagnosed if your ankle pressure is lower than your arm pressure. With severe narrowing, the ABI or ankle pressure may be half of your arm pressure. Your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests if the ABI is abnormal.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Don't Let Jack Frost Bite You

Most of us remember last winter’s extremely cold temperatures. Even if this winter is not as severe, there is always a danger of frostbite and hypothermia when the temperatures fall and windchill readings plummet.

Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program

MEDICARE APPROVED DIABETIC SHOE PROGRAM YOU CAN QUALIFY IF YOU ARE COVERED UNDER MEDICARE PART B AND HAVE ALL THREE OF THESE CONDITIONS:

Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis (PLAN-tur fas-e-I-tis) involves pain and inflammation of a thick, ligament-like band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes.

Plantar Warts

What are Plantar Warts? A wart is an infection caused by a virus, which can enter your skin through small breaks or cuts. Warts are one of several soft tissue conditions of the foot that can be quite painful. Over time, the wart develops into a hard,...

Fractures Strains and Sprains

Stress Fracture of the Foot and Ankle A stress fracture is a small break or crack in the bone. Stress fractures may develop from overuse, such as from high-impact sports like football, distance running or basketball.