Signs, Symptoms & Treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease: PAD Awareness Month

by | Sep 15, 2026 | PAD

September is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Awareness Month, an important time to learn the warning signs of a condition that can reduce blood flow to the legs and increase the risk of serious health complications.

At Premier Vascular & Vein Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, our board-certified, fellowship-trained vascular surgeons diagnose and treat PAD and other vascular conditions to help patients protect their mobility, circulation, and overall health.

PAD Awareness

What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when arteries that carry blood to the legs become narrowed or blocked. It is most often caused by a buildup of plaque inside the arteries, known as atherosclerosis.

When blood flow is reduced, the muscles and tissues in the legs may not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Over time, PAD can lead to worsening pain, non-healing wounds, tissue damage, and in severe cases, limb loss. PAD is also associated with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

What are the Common Symptoms of PAD?

PAD symptoms can be mild or easy to overlook. One of the most common signs is leg pain, cramping, aching, or heaviness while walking that improves with rest.

Other possible symptoms include:

  • Numbness or weakness in the legs
  • One foot or leg feeling colder than the other
  • Slow-healing or non-healing wounds on the feet or legs
  • Shiny skin or hair loss on the legs
  • Slow toenail growth
  • Weak pulses in the feet

Leg pain and poor circulation should not automatically be dismissed as a normal part of aging.

Who Is at Risk for PAD?

Your risk of PAD may be higher if you have:

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • A history of smoking
  • Atherosclerosis
  • A personal or family history of cardiovascular disease

If you have PAD risk factors and are experiencing leg symptoms, a vascular evaluation may be appropriate.

How Is PAD Diagnosed?

One common test for peripheral artery disease is the ankle-brachial index, or ABI. This simple, noninvasive test compares blood pressure in your ankle with blood pressure in your arm to help identify reduced blood flow.

Additional vascular testing may be recommended depending on your symptoms and results.

How Is PAD Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the disease and your individual health needs. Options may include:

  • Smoking cessation and lifestyle changes
  • Structured walking or exercise programs
  • Medications to manage cardiovascular risk factors
  • Angioplasty and stenting to open narrowed arteries
  • Vascular bypass surgery for more complex blockages

The goal is to improve circulation, reduce symptoms, promote wound healing, and help prevent PAD from progressing.

When Should You See a Vascular Specialist?

Talk with a vascular physician if you experience recurring leg pain when walking, a cold or numb foot, changes in the appearance of your legs, or a wound that is not healing.

During PAD Awareness Month, pay attention to what your legs may be telling you. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a meaningful difference.

Premier Vascular & Vein Center provides comprehensive PAD treatment in Knoxville and throughout East Tennessee.

Call (865) 588-8229 to schedule an appointment or request a consultation online at PremierVascularVeinCenter.com/book-online/.

We restore blood flow. We save limbs. We save lives.