What is it,why it’s done:
- The ankle-brachial index test is done to check for PAD (Peripheral Vascular Disease) – narrowed arteries that reduce blood flow, usually in your legs.Research indicates that PAD affects about 10 percent of people over age 55Your doctor might recommend an ankle-brachial index test if you have leg pain while walking or risk factors for PAD, such as:
- History of tobacco use
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Restricted blood flow (atherosclerosis) in other parts of your body