WHAT IS AN ABI TEST?

 

The ankle-brachial index test is a

 quick, non-invasive way to check

for peripheral artery disease (PAD).

 The disease occurs when

narrowed arteries reduce the

blood flow to your limbs. PAD can

 cause leg pain when walking and

 increase the risk of heart attack

and stroke.

 

The ankle-brachial index test

compares the blood pressure

measured at your ankle with the

blood pressure measured at your

arm. A low ankle-brachial index

number can indicate narrowing or

 blockage of the arteries in your

 legs.

 

You may have ankle-brachial

index testing before and

immediately after walking on a

treadmill. An exercise ankle-

brachial index test can assess the

 severity of the narrowed arteries

 during walking.

 

Your 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

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