Doppler - (Vascular testing)

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What is Podiatric Doppler?.

In podiatry, vascular testing is used to assess the circulation in your feet and ankles and to screen for peripheral artery disease, a condition that causes poor circulation to the lower limbs. Vascular testing is generally non-invasive and painless.

One common tool that podiatrists use in vascular testing is a 'Doppler ultrasound'.

Doppler ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to measure the amount of blood flow through your arteries and veins. During the test, a gel will be placed on a handheld device called a transducer, and your podiatrist will then move the device against the skin of your ankles and feet.

High-frequency sound waves are emitted by the device and some of those soundwaves get reflected by physical blood flow in the arteries or veins. The sound waves that get reflected by blood flow are detected by the transducer and then electronically transmitted to a computer for analysis.  

The computer examines the sound waves to determine whether or not there are any problems with your circulation.  

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with a podiatrist or your family doctor.

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If the Podiatrist thinks there is an issue

If your podiatrist suspects that you have poor circulation in your lower limbs they may suggest having a Doppler ultrasound exam performed. A Doppler ultrasound is a study that uses sound waves to measure the amount of blood flow through your arteries and veins. This test can be used to detect conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, superficial thrombophlebitis, arteriosclerosis.

A podiatrist may also use the Doppler ultrasound to check for blood vessel damage or narrowing or hardening of blood vessels, which can interrupt blood flow to the feet and legs. Once the cause of your poor circulation has been found, your podiatrist will be able to determine the next steps in treating and managing your condition.

If you suffer from poor circulation in your feet or ankles, please seek the care of a podiatrist.

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How is the 'Vascular test' conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination

• Doppler examination

• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.