Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a narrowing or blockage of arteries that causes poor blood flow to your legs or arms.

The most common cause of PAD is the buildup of plaque in blood vessels called “hardening” of the arteries. If you have hardening of the arteries in your legs, you most likely will have it in the arteries of your heart and brain. This increases your chance of having a heart attack or stroke.

Treatment for PAD includes ways to lower your risk of heart attack and stroke.