Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD / PVD)

Advanced Vascular Evaluation and Limb Preservation at Edge Podiatry

At Edge Podiatry, we recognize that poor circulation is one of the most serious threats to foot and ankle health. Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), also known as Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD), occurs when blood flow to the lower extremities becomes reduced due to narrowing or blockage of the arteries.

Because the feet and ankles are farthest from the heart, they are often the first areas to show signs of circulation problems. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent infection, ulceration, and in severe cases, limb loss.

What Is PAD / PVD?

PAD develops when the arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet become narrowed due to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup). This reduces oxygen-rich blood flow to the tissues.

Over time, decreased circulation can lead to:

• Pain with walking or activity

• Delayed wound healing

• Tissue damage

• Nerve injury

• Increased risk of infection and ulceration

Without proper treatment, PAD can progress and become limb-threatening.

Symptoms of PAD

Patients with PAD may experience:

• Cramping or pain in the legs or calves while walking (claudication)

• Cold feet or toes

• Slow-healing wounds or sores

• Skin color changes (pale, bluish, or darkened skin)

• Numbness or tingling in the feet

• Weak or absent pulses in the lower extremities

• Pain at rest in more advanced cases

Risk Factors for PAD

You may be at higher risk if you have a history of:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Heart disease

• Kidney disease

• Stroke

• Smoking history

• Age over 50

Lymphedema (Chronic Swelling)

Lymphedema is swelling caused by a disruption or blockage in the lymphatic system, leading to fluid buildup in the legs or feet.

Common causes include:

• Infection or inflammation

• Venous insufficiency

• Cancer or cancer treatment

• Age-related vascular changes

• Kidney or liver disease

Symptoms may include:

• Chronic swelling in the legs or feet

• Heaviness or tightness in the limbs

• Skin thickening or changes in texture

• Increased risk of skin breakdown or infection

Treatment Options:

• Compression therapy

• Lymphedema pumps (often insurance-covered with prescription)

• Elevation and exercise

• Skin and wound care

• Manual drainage techniques

Vascular Testing: ABI & PVR Studies

At our Elizabeth office, we offer advanced non-invasive vascular testing to evaluate blood flow in the lower extremities.

Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)

The ABI compares blood pressure in the ankle to the arm to determine if there is reduced circulation to the legs.

Pulse Volume Recording (PVR)

PVR testing uses blood pressure cuffs and ultrasound technology to evaluate arterial blood flow and detect blockages or narrowing in the vessels.

These tests are:

• Non-invasive

• Painless

• Performed in-office

• Critical for early detection of PAD

Gangrene

Gangrene is a serious condition that occurs when tissue dies due to lack of blood flow or severe infection. It most commonly affects the toes and feet.

Causes include:

• Severe PAD

• Diabetes

• Trauma or injury

• Untreated infection

Warning signs include:

• Dark purple or black skin

• Severe pain followed by numbness

• Foul odor from the affected area

• Open, non-healing wounds

Gangrene is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to prevent spread and possible amputation.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

At Edge Podiatry, we also offer Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) at our Elizabeth location.

During treatment:

• Patients breathe 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber

• Oxygen levels in the blood significantly increase

• This enhances healing and helps fight infection

HBOT may be used to support:

• Chronic wounds

• Diabetic ulcers

• Infected wounds

• Poor circulation-related injuries

Why Early Evaluation Matters

PAD and vascular disease often progress silently. Many patients do not realize there is a problem until wounds develop or pain becomes severe.

Early diagnosis can help:

• Prevent ulcers and infections

• Improve circulation and limb function

• Reduce risk of amputation

• Preserve mobility and quality of life

Schedule a Evaluation

If you are experiencing leg pain, poor circulation, non-healing wounds, or swelling, contact Edge Podiatry today.

We provide advanced diagnostic testing and treatment options, including ABI/PVR vascular studies and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, to help protect your feet, improve circulation, and preserve limb health.