Ankle Brachial Index

The Ankle Brachial Index measures the ratio between the systolic blood pressure at your patient's ankle and your arm. A range of 1.00-1.40 indicates that both pressures are equal, while an abnormal reading of 0.90-0.99 or below 0.90 suggests a decrease in blood circulation or risk of PAD.

The Ankle Brachial Index is a simple test that can be performed in your office or at the patient's bedside. It involves taking systolic blood pressure measurements from both the arms and ankles using a digital sphygmomanometer (blood pressure cuff). Then, divide the systolic pressure measured at the ankle by the systolic pressure measured at the arm. The result is the Ankle Brachial Index.

An Ankle Brachial Index can be used to help screen for PAD. It is most commonly used when patients report leg pain or claudication (pain in the legs that occurs during exercise). Additionally, it helps assess the risk of developing stroke and heart attack.