Leg pain, cramping while walking, or feet that are always cold might seem like signs of aging, but they could point to something far more serious: Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). This common yet underdiagnosed condition affects millions of people, particularly older adults, and can significantly impact quality of life.
At Pain & Vascular Institute, we specialize in diagnosing and treating PAD using advanced, minimally invasive techniques called endovascular interventions. With the right treatment, many patients in greater Chicagoland experience dramatic improvements in circulation, mobility, and overall health.
What Is Peripheral Arterial Disease?
Peripheral Arterial Disease is a circulatory condition in which narrowed or blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most often the legs. It’s usually caused by a buildup of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis) inside the arteries, similar to what occurs in heart disease.
When blood flow to the legs and feet is restricted, it can cause:
- Leg pain or cramping during walking (claudication)
- Numbness or weakness in the legs
- Coldness in the lower leg or foot
- Sores or wounds that are slow to heal
- Discoloration of the skin or toenails
- In severe cases, gangrene or risk of amputation
PAD is more common in people over age 60, smokers, those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol,and individuals with a history of heart disease or stroke. It’s not just a problem of discomfort, it’s a sign that arteries are compromised, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
PAD often goes undetected in its early stages. Many people think leg pain is simply part of getting older or blame other health conditions. Unfortunately, when PAD is left untreated, it can progress quickly, leading to limb-threatening complications such as critical limb ischemia (CLI), a severe form of PAD that can result in tissue death and amputation.
At Pain & Vascular Institute, we use on-site diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound and ABI (ankle-brachial index) testing, to quickly and accurately detect PAD. Identifying the problem early allows us to develop a treatment plan that restores circulation and prevents long-term complications.
What Are Endovascular Interventions?
Endovascular interventions are minimally invasive procedures used to open narrowed or blocked arteries and improve blood flow. Unlike open surgery, these procedures are performed through small punctures in the skin, using catheters, balloons, and other tools guided by live imaging.
For patients with PAD, endovascular techniques offer a safe and effective alternative to bypass surgery with faster recovery and fewer risks.
Common Endovascular Treatments for PAD
- Angioplasty. A small balloon is inserted into the blocked artery and inflated to widen the vessel and restore blood flow.
- Stenting. After angioplasty, a tiny mesh tube (stent) may be placed to keep the artery open and prevent it from narrowing again.
- Atherectomy. In this procedure, plaque buildup is physically removed from the artery using a specialized device.
- Thrombolysis or Thrombectomy. These techniques are used when blood clots are present. Thrombolysis involves dissolving the clot with medication, while thrombectomy removes it mechanically.
These procedures are typically done under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. At Pain & Vascular Institute, we perform them in our on-site state-of-the-art angio suite, eliminating the need for hospital visits and coordinating care in one location.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Endovascular treatments are generally quick, with most procedures taking 1 to 2 hours. Afterward, patients are monitored for a short time and usually return home the same day.
Recovery is relatively easy compared to traditional surgery:
- Most people resume normal activities within a few days
- Pain and cramping in the legs often improve almost immediately
- Walking longer distances becomes easier over time
- Ongoing lifestyle support and medications may be recommended to maintain circulation and prevent future blockages
Our team will follow up with you to ensure your arteries remain open and that your symptoms improve. We’ll also provide personalized recommendations for exercise, nutrition, smoking cessation, and diabetes or blood pressure management as needed.
Benefits of Endovascular Treatment for PAD
- Minimally invasive: No large incisions or general anesthesia
- Same-day discharge: Return home shortly after the procedure
- Improved circulation: Better blood flow means less pain and greater mobility
- Lower amputation risk: Early intervention can save limbs
- Tailored care: Treatments are personalized based on the location and severity of your arterial disease
For many patients, these procedures offer a second chance at walking pain-free, staying active, and avoiding life-altering surgeries like amputation.
Who Should Be Screened for PAD?
PAD can be silent, especially in its early stages. You may benefit from a screening if you:
- Are over age 60
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
- Smoke or have a history of smoking
- Have a family or personal history of cardiovascular disease
- Experience leg pain or fatigue while walking that improves with rest
If you have a non-healing wound on your leg or foot, or if your feet are often discolored, numb, or unusually cold, it’s especially important to seek medical attention right away.
Why Choose Pain & Vascular Institute?
We combine vascular surgery expertise and advanced imaging with a compassionate, patient-first approach. Our integrated care model means that diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up all happen in one place—eliminating delays and giving you direct access to experts who understand how to treat complex vascular conditions.
Whether you’ve just started noticing symptoms or you’ve been living with leg pain for months, we’re here to help you take the next step toward recovery.
Schedule Your PAD Evaluation Today in Fox River Grove, IL
Peripheral Arterial Disease is more than just leg pain, it’s a sign of underlying circulatory problems that shouldn’t be ignored. With timely diagnosis and advanced endovascular treatments, we can restore blood flow, relieve pain, and help you live more comfortably and confidently. Call 224-357-4001 to schedule your PAD screening and consultation with Pain & Vascular Institute in Fox River Grove, IL today.
