In case of characteristic symptoms, peripheral artery disease (PAD) can be readily diagnosed merely by history and physical examination.

The Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) is the ratio of the blood pressure in the lower legs to the blood pressure in the arms.

Compared to the arm, lower blood pressure in the leg is a symptom of blocked arteries PAD. The ABPI is calculated by dividing the systolic blood pressure in the arteries at the ankle and foot by the higher of the two systolic blood pressures in the arms. Normally, the value of ABPI is between 1.0 and 1.2, and if a value under 1.0 is measured, PAD can be diagnosed.

Studies from 2006 suggest that an abnormal ABPI may be an independent predictor of mortality, as it reflects the burden of atherosclerosis.

You may join our programs after having completed a cardiovascular specialist examination.