Measuring toe pressure has shown to be cost-effective, convenient and efficient in detecting arterial disease and preventing complications, especially when calcified arteries in the ankles make it hard to detect a reliable arterial blood pressure (ABP).

Over 30% of adults aged 65 and older worldwide are predicted to suffer from lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD).  However, the disease often goes undetected until complications arise, such as severe leg pain or a non-healing wound infection.

A study in the Journal of Ostomy Wound Management has shown that a simple and portable toe pressure test may be an alternative to other, more expensive and time-consuming methods of assessment. Toe pressure can be obtained with common equipment such as Doppler, volume plethysmography or photoplethysmography (PPG).

Calcified arteries in the ankle cause inaccurate ABP readings, and often LEAD goes unrecognised, especially when other conditions such as diabetes are present. The study suggests that this method should be used for the early detection of LEAD in high-risk patients and may prevent complications, such as lower extremity wounds and amputation.

To read the study, click here.

Image: Care and concern. Credit: VinothChandar on Flickr.