PAD (peripheral artery disease) is a disorder that commonly affects the lower extremities of older people, particularly those over 50 years of age. It is caused from decreased blood and oxygen flow to the legs due to arteriosclerosis, and atherosclerosis, deposits of cholesterol and fats in the innermost layer of the walls of the arteries. According to the American Heart Association, PAD affects about 8 millions of Americans; and the incidence is growing as people get older. If left untreated, it can lead to gangrene of the toes and amputation of the legs.

PAD is often misdiagnosed for some other condition by health care professionals. As a result, PAD is left untreated for months and years until it is too late to save a toe or a limb.

Smokers, diabetics, and people with high blood pressure and high cholesterol have an especially high risk for developing PAD. Symptoms of PAD are usually pain and/or cramping to the feet, calf, and thigh when walking. Simple “self-diagnosis” that can be done at home to check for decreased blood flow to the feet are tests for capillary nail refill (nail blanch test) and “paper clips” test, using the sharp end of a paper clip to press or probe and lightly “prick” for pain sensation, or the lack of sensations to various areas of the top and the bottom of the foot. If in doubt, see a good health care professional who knows how to diagnose and treat PAD. But, do not wait or procrastinate.