Peripheral Arterial Disease (P.A.D.)

Peripheral Arterial Disease, or P.A.D., affects millions of people in the United States. It is estimated 1 in every 20 Americans over the age of 50 has peripheral artery disease, with men having a greater risk than women. The major contributing risk factors are: smoking, older age, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or high triglycerides, coronary heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. These risk factors contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries.¹ As time progresses the plaque builds up to a point where it can block the blood supply to the head, organs, and limbs and is, at this point, diagnosed as Peripheral Arterial Disease. The treatments for peripheral arterial disease include: lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), medications, surgery, and therapies for healthier outcomes.² . P.A.D. is the leading cause of amputation, and also puts one at risk for heart attack, stroke, and even death.

Common Conditions or Risks for PAD
    Previous History of Stroke or Heart Attack            Smoking, or Sedentary Lifestyle
    Pain when Walking or at Rest                             History of Diabetes, Hypertension, High Cholesterol
    Hair Loss in the Arms or Legs                             History or Presence of Ulcers in the Leg or Arm

Our Interdisciplinary Approach

Skilled Nursing
    Complete History and Physical Assessment         Focused Drug Review
    Nutritional Assessment                                       Referral for Non-Invasive (ABI) Testing, if needed
    Referral to proper Cardiovascular Specialist           Wound Care, if needed
    Pre-op and Post-op Education for Patient and Family, if needed

Physical Therapy
    Complete Therapy Assessment                           Strength and ROM Assessment
    Sensory & Proprioception Assessment                Functional Ambulation Program
    Home Safety Evaluation                                      Supervised Strengthening and Conditioning Exercise
    Patient /Caregiver Education Equipment Evaluation and Proper Use

Occupational Therapy
    Complete OT Assessment                                  ADL’s Retraining
    Work Modification                                              Energy Conservation Education

Home Health Aide
Grooming and Bathing Assistance                          Light Housekeeping Pertaining to Patient Care Area

¹ 2011, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, “Who Is at Risk for Peripheral Arterial Disease?”
² 2011, VascularWeb,Peripheral Artery Disease(PAD)