Services

Doppler Vascular Assessment

A regular supply of oxygenated blood is required to support and nourish all the tissues in your body. Once oxygen is "attached" to the haemoglobin in your red blood cells (which takes place in your lungs), your heart pumps it through your arteries to the tissues.

When circulation to an area is diminished, a variety of problems can occur. Muscle cramping (mainly in the calves) when walking may indicate a significantly compromised blood supply.

Decreased arterial circulation also causes thinning and reduced elasticity of your skin, decreased/absent hair growth and delayed wound healing.

In fact, it can even decrease your resistance to infection when you've suffered a minor cut or undergone surgery. When your veins (which return deoxygenated or "used" blood back to your heart and lungs for re-oxygenation) are varicosed or otherwise deficient, you may be subjected to excessive swelling or even skin ulceration.

If you have diabetes, it is essential to keep a check on your circulation, as diabetes can affect the large and small vessels in your legs and feet. If you are a smoker, it would be very beneficial to assess your lower limb circulation, as there is a high risk of vessel disease associated with long-term smokers. 

We can do this at the Footfix clinic for a thorough vascular assessment. It will take about 40 mins. If you have diabetes, we can also provide a full and thorough foot examination to ensure your feet are in great condition.