Mayo Clinic Health Manager
Get free personalized health guidance for you and your family.
Get Started
close window
Mayo Clinic Housecall
Stay up to date on the latest health information.
What you get
- Free weekly e-newsletter
- Mayo Clinic expertise
- Recipes, tools and other helpful information
- We do not share your e-mail address
Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffThe ankle-brachial index test is a quick, non-invasive way to assess your risk for peripheral artery disease, a condition in which the arteries in your legs and ankles are narrowed. People with peripheral artery disease are at a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and poor circulation.
The ankle-brachial index test compares your blood pressure measured at your ankle with your blood pressure measured at your arm. A low ankle-brachial index number can indicate narrowing or blockage of the arteries in your legs, leading to circulatory problems, heart disease or stroke.
Why it's done
