Have you ever felt cramping, aching, or heaviness in your legs when walking, only to feel better when you rest? These are common symptom, known as claudication, could be a sign of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). PAD is a serious condition caused by narrowed or blocked arteries that reduce blood flow to the legs. Left untreated, PAD can lead to chronic wounds, infections, and even amputation. The good news? PAD is treatable, especially when caught early.

What Is PAD and Why Does It Matter?

PAD occurs when fatty deposits of cholesterol build up in the arteries, restricting blood flow to the lower extremities. Reduced circulation means less oxygen and nutrients reach the muscles and tissues. This causes pain during activity and, in advanced cases, leads to non-healing wounds and tissue damage.

Memphis residents, especially those over 50 or with risk factors like diabetes, smoking, or high blood pressure, should take leg pain seriously. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and improve quality of life.

 

Recognizing the Symptoms of PAD

PAD often starts with intermittent claudication—pain in the calves, thighs, or buttocks while walking or exercising. Other symptoms may include:

  • Leg numbness or weakness
  • Coldness in the lower leg or foot
  • Sores on toes, feet, or legs that won’t heal
  • Skin discoloration or shiny skin on the legs

If you notice these symptoms, don’t wait. PAD is progressive, and advanced stages can lead to critical limb ischemia, where wounds become infected and tissue starts to die.

How We Treat PAD

At Zenith Vascular & Fibroid Center with our award winning physicians, we offer lifestyle consultation and advanced, minimally invasive treatments for PAD. At our center we only perform interventions when it is beneficial to you. We work with you and your health goals and determine if a procedure is necessary. One of the most effective options is an angiogram. These procedures restore blood flow by clearing blockages and widening arteries. The result? Less pain, better wound healing, and a return to more active living.

Our procedures are performed in our modern, one-story facility with easy access and free parking. Patients are treated by experienced vascular specialists in a comfortable, outpatient setting—no hospital stay required.

 

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Most patients go home the same day with minimal downtime. We provide detailed instructions for post-procedure care and offer ongoing support to monitor your vascular health. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, managing diabetes, and regular walking programs can help maintain results.

 

Don’t Let Leg Pain Slow You Down

Ignoring leg pain won’t make it go away—but seeking timely care can prevent complications and even save a limb. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of PAD, contact Zenith Vascular & Fibroid Center today. Our compassionate team is here to help you walk farther, heal faster, and live better.