Peripheral Artery Disease: What Your Leg Pain May Be Telling You

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the extremities. This can cause leg pain, cramping, and even tissue damage. In this blog post, we will explore the symptoms and treatments for PAD, with a focus on the role of sports medicine physicians in Spring, TX, in managing this condition.

Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease

The most common symptom of PAD is leg pain, often described as a cramping or burning sensation. This pain typically occurs during physical activity, such as walking or climbing stairs, and may subside with rest. As the condition progresses, the pain may become more severe and occur even while resting. Other symptoms of PAD may include:

• Coldness or numbness in the legs or feet
• Sores or ulcers that are slow to heal
• Weak or absent pulses in the legs or feet
• Hair loss on the legs
• Changes in skin color, such as pale or bluish discoloration

Causes of Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up in the artery walls, narrowing the passageway for blood flow. Other factors that can contribute to PAD include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Age
• Family history

Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease

The treatment for peripheral artery disease will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, lifestyle changes may be sufficient to manage symptoms. These changes may include:

• Quitting smoking
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a balanced diet
• Exercising regularly
• Managing high blood pressure and cholesterol

In more severe cases of PAD, medical interventions and sports injury treatment in Houston may be necessary. These may include:

• Medications: To help improve blood flow and prevent blood clots
• Angioplasty: A procedure to widen the narrowed arteries using a balloon catheter
• Bypass surgery: A procedure to reroute blood flow around the blocked arteries

The Role of Sports Medicine

Sports medicine physicians can play a vital role in the diagnosis and management of peripheral artery disease, especially in athletes who may experience leg pain or discomfort during physical activity. Physicians can conduct a thorough physical examination, order diagnostic tests, and recommend appropriate treatment options. Sports medicine can also help individuals with PAD develop personalized exercise programs to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.

Seeking Medical Care

If you are experiencing symptoms of PAD, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. Sports injury treatment in Houston is available with the physicians at TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital, offering quality care for athletes and individuals with PAD. Sports medicine physicians in Spring and Houston, TX, are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with a variety of conditions, including PAD.

By understanding the symptoms and treatment options for PAD, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their condition and improve their quality of life. With the knowledge of sports medicine professionals, patients can benefit from effective and personalized care.

Visit the Sports Medicine services page to learn more about our treatments and interventions. Then scroll down to find the right sports medicine physician in Spring and Houston, TX, near you.