Do your legs ache when you walk but feel better when you rest? Do you experience cramping, numbness, or slow-healing sores on your feet? If so, you may be dealing with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)–a serious vascular condition that affects millions of Americans but often goes undiagnosed. Without proper treatment, PAD can lead to severe circulation problems, chronic pain, and even limb loss.
At Vascular Surgery Associates, our leading vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica provide advanced diagnostics and cutting-edge treatment options to restore blood flow, relieve pain, and prevent complications.
What is Peripheral Artery Disease?
PAD occurs when plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis) restricts blood flow to the legs, depriving the muscles and tissues of oxygen and nutrients. This causes pain, cramping, and mobility issues–especially during activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that PAD affects nearly 8.5 million Americans, yet many people mistake the symptoms for aging or arthritis.
Ignoring PAD can lead to critical limb ischemia (CLI), non-healing wounds, infections, and even amputation. The good news? Early diagnosis and treatment can protect your limbs and improve your vascular health.
Signs Your Legs Are Trying to Tell You Something
PAD symptoms often develop gradually and worsen over time. Common warning signs include:
- Leg pain or cramping (claudication) that worsens when walking and improves with rest
- Numbness, tingling, or coldness in the feet or toes
- Slow-healing sores or ulcers on the legs, feet, or toes
- Weak or absent pulses in the legs
- Shiny, tight skin or loss of hair growth on the lower legs
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait–early intervention is key to preventing serious complications.
Are You at Risk for PAD?
Certain lifestyle choices and medical conditions increase the risk of developing Peripheral Artery Disease:
Smoking
One of the biggest contributors to arterial blockages and poor circulation
Diabetes
Leads to damaged blood vessels and non-healing wounds
High Cholesterol
Causes plaque buildup, reducing blood flow
Obesity
Places additional strain on the vascular system
Family History of PAD or Heart Disease
Genetic predisposition increases the likelihood of artery blockages
How is PAD Diagnosed?
Our vascular specialists in Los Angeles and Santa Monica use state-of-the-art imaging techniques to diagnose PAD and assess arterial health. These include:
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Test
Measures blood pressure in the legs compared to the arms to check for blockages
Doppler Ultrasound
Evaluates blood flow and identifies restricted arteries
CT and MR Angiography
Provides highly detailed images of the arteries to pinpoint blockages
Catheter-Based Angiography
Uses contrast dye to create a real-time map of blood flow
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatment Options for PAD
At Vascular Surgery Associates, we offer a full range of treatments to help patients restore circulation, relieve pain, and regain mobility.
Lifestyle Modifications
Quitting smoking, weight loss, and regular exercise can significantly improve circulation
Medications
Blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and vasodilators help enhance blood flow and reduce the risk of clot formation
Supervised Exercise Therapy
Helps increase walking distance and decrease leg pain
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Angioplasty & Stenting or Atherectomy can be used to restore blood flow
Surgical Bypass
In severe cases, a bypass graft is used to reroute blood flow around a blocked artery
Frequently Asked Questions About PAD
While PAD itself is not fatal, it significantly raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, and amputation if left untreated.
Atherosclerosis cannot be completely reversed, but early treatment can stop progression, improve circulation, and relieve symptoms.
PAD-related pain only occurs during activity and improves with rest, whereas arthritis and nerve pain may persist even when you are not moving.
Severe PAD can lead to critical limb ischemia (CLI), chronic wounds, infections, and possible amputation.
Quit smoking, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Dedicated to Excellence in Vascular Care Since 1963
Vascular Surgery Associates (VSA) has established itself as a cornerstone of vascular health in Southern California, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge treatment methods. Founded by visionary surgeons in 1963, our practice has grown from pioneering beginnings into one of the busiest and most respected vascular surgery groups in the Western United States.
Take the First Step: Schedule Your PAD Consultation in Los Angeles and Santa Monica
If you have leg pain, cramping, or slow-healing wounds, don’t ignore the warning signs of Peripheral Artery Disease. At Vascular Surgery Associates, we offer expert diagnosis, minimally invasive treatments, and personalized vascular care to restore circulation and protect your mobility. Contact our Los Angeles or Santa Monica offices today to schedule an evaluation and take control of your vascular health.