In podiatry, vascular testing is used to evaluate the circulation in your feet and ankles and to screen for peripheral artery disease, a condition that causes poor circulation to the lower limbs. Vascular testing is generally noninvasive and painless. One common tool that podiatrists use in vascular testing is a Doppler ultrasound. A Doppler ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to measure the amount of blood flow through your arteries and veins. During the test, a gel will be placed on a handheld device called a transducer, and your podiatrist will then move the device against the skin of your ankles and feet. The high-frequency sound waves emitted by the device allow it to create images of your blood flow on a computer, which are then examined to determine whether or not there are any problems with your circulation. To learn more about Doppler ultrasounds and other vascular tests, consult with a podiatrist today.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.