Peripheral Artery Disease

• Leg or foot discomfort during activity
• Reduced walking tolerance
• Pain at rest in more advanced disease
• Temperature or color changes in the foot
• Diminished pulses
• Wounds that heal slowly

• Impaired arterial blood flow to the lower extremities
• Cardiovascular risk factors identified during evaluation

1. We review your symptoms, activity or injury history, footwear, and medical history.
2. We examine the pulses, skin, temperature, and other vascular findings along with the surrounding joints and the way you walk.
3. We use X-rays or other testing when the findings make it clinically appropriate.
4. We explain what we found and what the reasonable options are for your situation.

You will see Dr. Kayla Wright, DPM, ABFAS Board Certified, at our Tempe office. New to the practice? Review new-patient information before your visit.

Evaluation begins with medical history, risk factors, and examination. Resting ankle-brachial index is commonly used, though interpretation can be more complex in people with diabetes. Toe pressures or other noninvasive vascular studies may be used when appropriate.

1. History, risk-factor review, and pulse and skin assessment
2. Ankle-brachial index when appropriate
3. Toe pressures or other noninvasive vascular studies when indicated
4. Ongoing foot care and protection
5. Coordinated vascular and wound-care evaluation for suspected severe ischemia, tissue loss, or a nonhealing wound

A foot wound that is not healing, or new rest pain and color change, should be evaluated promptly rather than watched.

Some foot and ankle symptoms should be evaluated promptly rather than watched. Call our office if you notice:

• An injury with difficulty walking or bearing weight
• A change in the shape or appearance of the foot or ankle after a fall or twist
• Redness, warmth, drainage, or signs of infection
• An open sore or wound on the foot, especially with diabetes or circulation concerns
• New numbness, burning, or other changes in sensation
• Pain that keeps getting worse or does not improve with reasonable initial care

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. This website and its appointment tools are not monitored for emergency medical needs.

Can I have PAD without symptoms?

Yes. PAD may be present with or without recognizable symptoms.

Is one test enough to rule it out?

No. Ankle-brachial index is commonly used, but interpretation can be more complex in people with diabetes, and other noninvasive studies may be appropriate.

Why does a podiatrist care about circulation?

Blood flow affects healing and comfort, and foot care is an important part of managing PAD alongside other specialists.

To be seen for peripheral artery disease, request an appointment or call 480-831-0700. Our office is at 3231 S Country Club Way, Suite 108, in Tempe — see directions and parking.