Diabetic? Step into 2025 with Advanced Diagnostic Testing!
If you’re over the age of 55, affected by type 2 diabetes, or you’ve been struggling with diabetes for more than 5 years, we’ve got the perfect way for you to start 2025 right: Vascular Pulse Volume Recording (PVR) testing and Sudomotor testing.
These powerful diagnostics can give you the clarity and peace of mind you’re after, providing a roadmap for the routine care that matters most. For this blog post, Caring Podiatry will explain the basics of how they work and why they’ll help.
Vascular PVR Testing: A Window into Your Circulation
What it is: Vascular PVR testing is a non-invasive way to assess the blood flow in your lower extremities that’s particularly useful for those who struggle with diabetes. It measures changes in blood volume in your limbs, providing insights into arterial health.
Why it Matters: According to the American Heart Association, approximately 8.5 million people in the United States have peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition characterized by narrowed arteries that reduce blood flow to the limbs. PVR testing can help detect PAD in its early stages, even before symptoms appear.
How it Works: Cuffs, similar to blood pressure cuffs, are placed on your legs and ankles. These cuffs inflate and deflate, and sensors record the changes in blood volume. The results help your podiatrist determine the severity of any arterial blockage.
Sudomotor Testing: Unmasking Nerve Dysfunction
What it is: Sudomotor testing evaluates the function of the small nerve fibers in your feet, particularly those responsible for sweating. This is essential because sweat gland function is often one of the first things affected by conditions like peripheral neuropathy.
Why it Matters: The American Diabetes Association reports that about half of all people with diabetes have some form of nerve damage. Early detection of nerve dysfunction through Sudomotor testing allows for timely intervention and management, helping to prevent complications like foot ulcers and infections.
How it Works: This painless test uses a small electrical current to stimulate the sweat glands in your feet. Sensors measure the sweat response, providing a quantitative assessment of nerve function.
The big takeaway? Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule a consultation with your podiatrist to discuss whether these advanced diagnostic tests are right for you.
Contact our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) or Neptune (732-455-8700) offices to make an appointment! Podiatrists Andrew Schmierer, Craig Shapero, and Mark Fillari will be happy to assist you with the warmth, compassion, and expertise Caring Podiatry is known for.