Peripheral Arterial Disease, or PAD, is a circulatory condition when the body's arteries have become narrow and blood flow is diminished to the limbs. The legs and arms are most often affected by the condition. Symptoms include pain when walking, numbness and an increase in infections of the leg. The condition may be a side effect of atherosclerosis, or plaque in the arteries. Plaque is formed when fat, cholesterol, calcium and other blood products build up and harden inside the arterial walls. The buildup causes the artery to become narrower, and restricts blood flow. The brain, heart and lungs may not be receiving the amount of blood required. A person with PAD has an increased risk of heart disease, stroke or other complications. Besides lifestyle changes and medical procedures, several alternative therapies may benefit a person diagnosed with this condition.
Ginkgo Biloba
Experts at the Mayo Clinic state some patients have success when taking the herbal supplement ginko biloba. The herb has been reported to relieve leg pain in some PAD patients by thinning the blood. The experts at the Mayo Clinic caution people who are considering ginko biloba as an alternative treatment. The herb can cause severe amounts of bleeding when taken in large doses. Many PAD patients are prescribed anticoagulant and anti-platelet therapy, such as aspirin and other medications; adding ginkgo biloba, also an anticoagulant, may increase bleeding to dangerous levels. A standard dose of ginkgo biloba is 120 mg/day; however, a 1999 study found a dose double the standard dose was more effective in treating symptoms of leg pain. It is recommended to seek medical advice prior to taking any herbal supplements.
Chelation Therapy
An alternative, yet somewhat controversial, therapy to treat peripheral artery disease is chelation therapy. A synthetic amino acid, EDTA, is administered via intravenous infusion; EDTA potentially binds to calcium deposits in the arteries and in theory flushes away calcium and eventually hard plaque buildup--often a common cause for PAD. No conclusive clinical trials or scientific research has been conducted to confirm the therapy is beneficial, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). Many argue that lifestyle changes implemented while receiving chelation therapy, such as weight loss, quitting smoking and other factors, are the actual reason the therapy seems to work. However, many proponents claim chelation therapy has removed plaque from their arteries and restored their circulatory system's health. Treatments vary, yet many patients receive upwards of 30 to 40 treatments. Cost of treatment is between $50 and $125. Experts at AHA state that most insurance companies will not cover the cost of the controversial treatment, and patients must pay out of pocket.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been followed for thousands of years in Asia, and in the United States it is considered alternative medicine. Pressure points, specifically in the hands, feet and outer wrist have been used to treat arteriosclerosis--commonly associated with PAD According to Internet Health Library, acupuncture shows some health improvements from those suffering from PAD. Small needles are inserted into the pressure points and manipulated by hand or using electronic stimulation. Visit with a licensed acupuncture professional for treatment. The National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine suggests asking your own medical doctor for references, and asking the acupuncturist for licensure and educational information.
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