Treatments
Vascular Doppler Studies
Vascular Doppler studies are a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to assess blood flow in the arteries and veins of the legs and feet. These studies are especially important for patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or symptoms of peripheral vascular disease (PVD).
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we use vascular Doppler studies to evaluate blood flow, identify blockages, and develop targeted treatment plans to improve circulation and prevent complications like ulcers or infections.
Vascular Doppler studies use sound waves to measure blood flow through your blood vessels. By using a handheld device called a Doppler, we can detect the speed and direction of blood flow in your arteries and veins. This helps identify blockages or reduced circulation that could be contributing to foot pain, wounds, or other issues.
The results of a Doppler study allow us to diagnose conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can severely impact foot health.
- Non-invasive and painless diagnostic method.
- Accurately detects circulation issues in the legs and feet.
- Helps identify blockages or clots that may lead to serious complications.
- Aids in developing personalized treatment plans to improve blood flow.
Poor circulation in the feet and legs can lead to a variety of complications, including chronic wounds, infections, and tissue damage. For patients with diabetes, PVD, or other vascular conditions, identifying circulation issues early is crucial for preventing more serious problems.
Vascular Doppler studies provide detailed information about blood flow, enabling your doctor to pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms and create an effective treatment plan.
- Pain or cramping in the legs or feet, especially during activity.
- Coldness or discoloration in the feet.
- Wounds that heal slowly or not at all.
- Swelling in the legs or feet.
- Numbness or tingling in the toes or feet.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we use state-of-the-art Doppler ultrasound technology to provide detailed assessments of your vascular health. Here’s what to expect during the procedure
Step 1:
- Comprehensive Exam: We’ll begin by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors for circulation issues. This helps us determine whether a Doppler study is necessary and what areas we should focus on during the test.
- Personalized Care Plan: If circulation issues are suspected, we’ll schedule a vascular Doppler study to get a clearer picture of your vascular health.
Step 2:
- Non-invasive Procedure: You’ll lie comfortably while a handheld Doppler device is placed on your legs or feet. The device uses sound waves to detect blood flow, and the information is displayed on a monitor.
- Painless Testing: The procedure is painless and doesn’t involve any incisions or needles. It usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the areas being tested.
- Real-time Results: During the study, we can see real-time data about your blood flow and identify any blockages, reduced circulation, or other vascular issues.
Step 3:
- Detailed Analysis: After the Doppler study, we’ll analyze the results to determine the severity and location of any circulation problems.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the findings, we’ll recommend the best treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or advanced procedures to improve blood flow.
Vascular Doppler studies can help diagnose a variety of conditions related to poor circulation, including:
Narrowing or blockage of the arteries that reduces blood flow to the legs and feet, often leading to pain or wounds that are slow to heal.
Blood clots that form in the veins of the legs, which can cause swelling, pain, and increase the risk of more serious complications if untreated.
A condition where the veins in the legs don’t work efficiently, leading to blood pooling, swelling, and the development of ulcers.
Hardening or thickening of the arteries due to plaque buildup, which can limit blood flow and increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
Once you’ve undergone a vascular Doppler study, taking steps to improve your circulation is key to maintaining foot health and preventing future problems. Here are some tips to help improve circulation:
Regular exercise, such as walking, can help improve blood flow to your legs and feet.
Smoking constricts blood vessels and impairs circulation, increasing the risk of vascular problems.
Keep diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels under control with proper management and regular check-ups.
For patients with venous insufficiency, compression stockings can help improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
At Sheehy Ankle & Foot Center, we are committed to providing our patients with the most advanced diagnostic tools, including vascular Doppler studies, to ensure the best care for circulation-related foot issues. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, slow-healing wounds, or other vascular symptoms, we are here to help you take the next step toward healthier feet.
Don’t wait — schedule your vascular Doppler study today.
