Peripheral Arterial Disease
Woundcare Table of Contents
Peripheral Arterial Disease Care
OC Center for Wound Healing & Foot Care | Dr. Mark Reed, DPM
Expert PAD Diagnosis & Limb-Saving Care in Orange County
At the OC Center for Wound Healing & Foot Care, Dr. Mark Reed, DPM, offers expert diagnosis and advanced treatment options for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)—a serious condition that affects blood flow to the lower extremities. With decades of experience in limb preservation and diabetic foot care, Dr. Reed is dedicated to preventing amputations and improving quality of life through early intervention and personalized treatment.
What Is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?
Peripheral Arterial Disease is a circulatory condition where fatty deposits (plaque) build up along the arterial walls, causing the arteries that supply blood to your arms and legs to narrow or become blocked. This condition, also known as arteriosclerosis or “hardening of the arteries,” significantly restricts blood circulation—especially in the legs and feet, where complications can quickly become limb-threatening.
PAD primarily affects the large blood vessels where pulses are usually felt. In contrast, diabetes affects small blood vessels (microcirculation), reducing oxygen delivery to tissues. Alarmingly, 50% of diabetic patients also develop PAD, making regular screening and treatment vital to avoid severe complications like infections, ulcers, and amputations.
Symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease
PAD often goes unnoticed. According to the Peripheral Arterial Disease Coalition, 20-50% of patients with PAD may not exhibit any symptoms, which is why early detection is critical.
Common Signs and Symptoms of PAD:
• Cramping or pain in the legs or hips while walking, relieved by rest (claudication)
• Numbness, weakness, or heaviness in the legs
• Burning or aching in the feet or toes, especially at night or while lying flat
• Cool skin temperature in the legs or feet
• Color changes in the skin of the legs or arms
• Sores or ulcers that won’t heal, especially on the toes or feet
• Absent or weak foot pulses
If you are experiencing any of these signs, early evaluation by a foot and vascular specialist is essential.
Who Is at Risk for PAD?
Understanding your risk factors can help with early prevention and effective management.
You May Be at Increased Risk If You:
• Smoke or use tobacco – even 1 or 2 cigarettes per day can severely hinder blood flow.
• Have diabetes – strict blood sugar control is crucial for PAD prevention.
• Are over the age of 60 – PAD is significantly more common in older adults.
• Have a family history of heart disease – genetics play a role in vascular health.
How Do You Test For PAD?
Non-Invasive Vascular Testing for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
At OC Center for Wound Healing & Foot Care, early detection of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) begins with non-invasive vascular testing. These diagnostic tools help identify reduced blood flow to the legs and feet—critical for preventing complications such as non-healing wounds, ulcers, and infections that can lead to limb-threatening conditions.
How PAD Is Diagnosed
The first step in identifying PAD is through non-invasive testing that evaluates blood flow in your lower extremities. The two primary methods include:
1. Blood Pressure Measurement with Pulse Waveform Analysis
Blood pressure cuffs are strategically placed at various levels on the legs to compare blood flow and detect blockages. This test also captures a pulse waveform, offering insight into arterial health and circulation strength. It’s a simple, painless procedure performed right in our clinic and provides your foot doctor with immediate, actionable results.
2. Vascular Ultrasound Imaging
Ultrasound technology can create detailed images of the blood vessels, identifying areas of narrowing or blockage caused by plaque buildup. This helps us determine the severity of PAD and tailor the best treatment plan for your needs.
What Happens After Testing?
If the results show signs of reduced blood flow or suspected PAD, Dr. Mark Reed may recommend additional advanced testing such as an angiogram. This imaging test is typically performed by a Vascular Surgeon or Interventional Radiologist to more accurately map arterial blockages and plan any necessary interventions.
Early diagnosis is key. If you’re experiencing leg pain, numbness, or non-healing foot wounds, schedule your vascular screening today at OC Center for Wound Healing & Foot Care.
Why Choose Dr. Mark Reed for PAD Care?
Dr. Mark Reed, DPM, brings over 30 years of experience treating diabetic complications, including neuropathy, ulcers, and vascular disease. He has helped thousands of patients prevent amputations and manage PAD effectively through:
• Comprehensive diagnostic testing
• Personalized treatment protocols
• Advanced wound healing techniques
• Ongoing diabetic foot care and education
Schedule Your PAD Evaluation Today
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Early detection and treatment of PAD can save your limbs—and your life. At OC Center for Wound Healing & Foot Care, we provide cutting-edge care in a compassionate environment, tailored to your unique vascular health needs.
Sources: American Heart Association., Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Health, Society of Cardiovascular and interventional Radiology, Vascular Disease Foundation, World Health Organization