When it comes to foot and ankle health, circulation plays a critical role. Proper blood flow ensures that tissues receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to stay healthy and heal from injury. Unfortunately, many patients, especially those with diabetes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), or a history of smoking, may have compromised circulation. That’s where in-office vascular testing at New Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute becomes essential.
Why Vascular Testing Matters
Feet are often the first place where poor circulation shows itself. Cold toes, cramping, delayed wound healing, and even changes in skin color can all be signs of underlying vascular issues. If left undiagnosed, these problems can lead to ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, amputation.
By offering vascular testing in-office, our providers can:
- Detect circulation problems early before they become severe.
- Guide treatment decisions such as wound care, medication, or referral to a vascular specialist.
- Monitor at-risk patients with diabetes, neuropathy, or a history of PAD.
- Improve patient outcomes by integrating vascular health into foot and ankle care.
What to Expect During Your In-Office Vascular Testing
Our vascular testing is non-invasive and painless. It includes:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): Compares blood pressure in the ankle to that in the arm, screening for PAD.
- Toe-Brachial Index (TBI): Measures blood flow in the toes for patients with calcified arteries (common in diabetes).
- Pulse Volume Recording (PVR): Measures changes in volume within the leg to assess circulation.
These quick and effective tests can be done right in our Succasunna office.
The Benefits for Our Patients
The convenience of in-office vascular testing means that our patients don’t have to wait for hospital-based testing or separate referrals. Early detection leads to earlier treatment, which can prevent complications such as non-healing wounds or infections. For patients with diabetes or vascular risk factors, regular vascular testing can be life-changing—and even limb-saving.
What if Your Test Results Are Abnormal?
By incorporating vascular testing into our practice, we not only address foot pain and injury but also take a proactive role in whole-patient health. Abnormal results could mean that you are at high risk of not only lower extremity issues, but also cardiac issues and a risk of stroke, since what’s happening in the lower extremities is likely also happening in the heart and in the blood vessels that feed the brain. Our team includes a board certified vascular specialist that you will be referred to. This comprehensive approach ensures that circulation concerns are never overlooked, and that our patients receive the highest level of care under one roof.
If you have any symptoms of peripheral artery disease, such as pain in the legs or buttocks when you walk or when they are elevated, discoloration or coldness of your feet and toes, slow healing wounds on your feet and legs, etc. schedule an appointment to see our providers at New Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute at our Morris and Warren County locations.
