What is Peripheral Arterial Disease?

Peripheral Arterial Disease is a chronic condition where plaque builds up in the arteries that are responsible for delivery of blood to the legs. As the plaque worsens and the arteries narrow, this limits blood flow to the legs causing discomfort with movement.

This graphic of a diseased artery depicts the plaque build up associated with Peripheral Arterial Disease. This partial blockage or occlusion causes blood flow to decrease, depriving the tissues of oxygen.

RISK FACTORS

  • Increased age
  • Smoking history
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity

SYMPTOMS

  • Cramping pain when walking/exercising
  • Pain in the feet or toes at night when the legs are elevating
  • Burning or tingling pain
  • Open wounds on the feet or toes

TREATMENT OPTIONS

  • Risk factor management (e.g. treatment for high cholesterol)
  • Medications
  • Exercise / lifestyle modifications
  • Smoking cessation
  • Surgical intervention (usually a bypass or stenting)

The WAVE Program at Vascular Health Bronte was developed for patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease and focuses on increasing mobility and risk factor modification. This eight-week program focuses on non-surgical means of improving symptoms related to arterial disease and is run by our Physician Assistant.

For more information on the WAVE Program please click here

DISCLAIMER

​The information provided is for informational purposes only and is not to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or care. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider concerning any questions you may have regarding the above information and any medical condition you believe may be relevant to you or to someone else. The above information is not exhaustive and does not cover all diseases, physical conditions or their treatments.