PAD 101: Start the New Year With a Circulation Screening

A new year often brings renewed focus on health—eating better, moving more, and staying ahead of potential problems before they become serious. One area that’s frequently overlooked is circulation, particularly in the legs. That’s where Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) comes in.

PAD is common, underdiagnosed, and progressive—but when caught early, it’s highly manageable. A New Year screening can make a meaningful difference for your long-term mobility and quality of life.

What Is PAD?

Peripheral Artery Disease occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet. Over time, this narrowing reduces blood flow, making it harder for oxygen and nutrients to reach the muscles and skin.

Many people assume leg discomfort is just part of aging or arthritis, but PAD is a vascular condition, not a joint or muscle problem.

Why PAD Often Goes Undetected

PAD doesn’t always announce itself clearly. In fact:

• Some people have no symptoms at all
• Others notice subtle signs they dismiss as normal
• Symptoms may appear only with walking or activity

Because PAD can progress silently, screening is essential—especially if you have risk factors.

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

You may benefit from a PAD screening if you notice:

• Calf, thigh, or buttock pain when walking that improves with rest
• Leg fatigue or heaviness
• Cold feet or toes
• Slow-healing cuts or sores on the legs or feet
• Changes in skin color or texture
• Weak or absent pulses in the feet
• Night cramps in the legs or feet
• Knee pain

Even mild or occasional symptoms are worth evaluating.

Who Should Be Screened?

PAD screening is especially important if you:

• Are over age 50
• Have diabetes
• Smoke or previously smoked
• Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• Have a family history of vascular disease
• Have a history of heart disease or stroke

If you check even one of these boxes, a screening can provide valuable insight.

What Does a PAD Screening Involve?

PAD screening is simple, quick, and non-invasive. It may include:

• A physical exam of pulses and skin
• An Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test to compare blood pressure in the arms and legs
• Vascular ultrasound, if needed, to assess blood flow

There are no needles, no downtime, and no recovery period.

Why Screening at the Start of the Year Matters

PAD is not just about leg pain—it’s linked to overall cardiovascular health. Identifying circulation problems early can:

• Prevent progression to critical limb issues
• Reduce the risk of wounds and infections
• Improve walking ability and daily comfort
• Support heart and brain health

Think of PAD screening as preventive care for your mobility.

Make Circulation Part of Your New Year Health Plan

This year, don’t just focus on numbers on a scale or steps on a tracker. Pay attention to how well blood is flowing where it matters most—your legs.

If you’ve noticed symptoms, have risk factors, or simply want peace of mind, a PAD screening is a smart place to start.

Strong circulation supports an active, independent life—this year and beyond.