A pedal pulse is a pulse felt in the foot, specifically at the dorsalis pedis artery (top of the foot) and the posterior tibial artery (inside the ankle). It is used to assess the blood flow to the feet and lower legs.
Why is it Important to Check for a Pedal Pulse?
Checking for a pedal pulse is important for several reasons:
- Detecting Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): A weak or absent pedal pulse can be a sign of PAD, a condition where the arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, restricting blood flow.
- Monitoring Circulation: A strong pedal pulse indicates good blood flow to the feet, while a weak or absent pulse may suggest a circulation problem.
- Assessing the Severity of Injuries: In cases of trauma or injury to the lower extremities, checking for a pedal pulse can help determine the extent of damage to blood vessels.
- Evaluating Medical Treatments: Doctors may use pedal pulse assessment to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for conditions like PAD or diabetes.
How to Check for a Pedal Pulse
- Locate the arteries: The dorsalis pedis artery is located on the top of the foot, just lateral to the extensor tendon of the big toe. The posterior tibial artery is located on the inside of the ankle, behind the medial malleolus (the bony bump on the inside of the ankle).
- Use light pressure: Place your index and middle fingers over the artery. Don't press too hard, as this can make it difficult to feel the pulse.
- Assess the pulse: Note the strength, regularity, and rate of the pulse.
A healthcare professional will assess the strength of the pedal pulse on a scale of 0 to 4+, with 0 being absent and 4+ being a bounding pulse.
