PADnet Vascular Testing
Healthy feet need a healthy circulatory system, Advanced Ankle & Foot provides PADnet vascular testing as a tool for monitoring that important relationship.
PADnet allows us an easy means to ascertain and monitor circulatory health to the feet and lower limbs over time. This allows us to discover and take action on any potential problems sooner, providing us a much higher chance of reducing the severity of complications or long-term effects.
What Does PADnet Look For?
PADnet tests for the potential of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
PAD is a condition in which blood flow to the limbs becomes gradually narrowed over time. Such narrowing can be caused by the buildup of calcium and fatty deposits along the walls of arteries, and can also be connected to complications from smoking and diabetes.
Although PAD can have negative effects on other parts of the body, the feet, and lower limbs are often impacted more frequently and severely. Since the feet are already so far from the heart, it is already more of a challenge to pump needed blood to them than it is to other areas of the body. When something begins interfering with circulation, the feet will tend to feel the consequences first.
How Does PADnet Work?
PADnet works by performing an Ankle-Brachial Index, or ABI.
This test compares blood pressure readings between your arms and legs. The lower your leg readings are when compared to those in their arms, the more likely that PAD may be affecting your lower limbs.
A difference in blood pressures does not always automatically mean that PAD is present. We must sometimes consider other factors that may influence a reading. Additionally, consistent testing will allow us to track a patient’s ABI over time and look for changes.
The test itself is simple and comfortable. A patient will lie down on an exam table and have pressure cuffs wrapped around the arms, calves, ankles, and above the knees. These cuffs will be inflated, and our PADnet machine takes readings from each cuff, similar to a standard blood pressure test at your primary care office.
The overall test may take 15-20 minutes. Before the test, you will be asked to remove any jewelry or other items that may interfere with obtaining a clear reading. If you smoke, you will also be asked to refrain from doing so for at least 30 minutes before the test.
Once the test is finished, you will be free to continue with your day as normal. No aftercare is necessary.
Who Should Receive PADnet Testing?
Vascular testing can be a powerful tool in the early detection of circulatory problems.
Anyone with potential symptoms of PAD, including leg cramping and pain during walking and other activities, will very likely be recommended for testing.
Even when there are not any noticeable symptoms, annual testing may still be recommended for:
- Anyone over the age of 65
- Anyone over the age of 50 who has additional risk factors, including diabetes or a history of smoking
There may be other situations where we may recommend vascular testing. We will always be happy to discuss with you the reasoning behind our recommendations.
Staying One Step Ahead with Preventative Testing
When it comes to most problems involving circulation, early detection and action can often save or reduce plenty of trouble in the future. Our investment in PADnet testing is an investment in the long-term health of our patients.
We invite you to schedule an appointment with us by calling (480) 962-4281 or by filling out our online contact form.