01/22/2025
While Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and neuropathy can both cause discomfort in your legs and feet, they stem from entirely different issues. Knowing the difference is key to finding the right treatment. Here’s how they compare:
▶ Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Poor Circulation
✔ Cause: PAD occurs when arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow.
✔Symptoms:
Pain or cramping in the legs during activity (often relieved by rest).
Slow-healing wounds on feet or legs.
Coldness, discoloration, or hair loss on the legs.
✔Risk Factors: Smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a history of vascular disease.
✔Treatment: Lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures like angioplasty to restore blood flow.
▶ Neuropathy: Nerve Damage
✔Cause: Often linked to diabetes, neuropathy is caused by damage to the nerves that carry signals between the brain and limbs.
✔Symptoms:
Tingling, burning, or stabbing pain in the feet or hands.
Numbness or loss of sensation, making it hard to detect injuries.
Muscle weakness or balance problems.
✔Risk Factors: Diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, excessive alcohol use, or certain infections.
✔Treatment: Managing blood sugar, medications for nerve pain, and physical therapy.
If you or a loved one have any of the above symptoms, give us a call at (301)374-8540 to have a consultation with our board-certified vascular experts. Our team will create a comprehensive care plan based on your symptoms and lifestyle and get you back to feeling your best!