Which physical examination findings are associated with peripheral artery disease (PAD)?

The presence of weak femoral or pedal pulses is a key physical examination finding associated with peripheral artery disease (PAD). In PAD, the arteries that supply blood to the limbs, particularly the legs, become narrowed or blocked due to atherosclerosis, leading to reduced blood flow. This reduced blood flow can manifest as diminished or weak pulses in the femoral or pedal areas when performing a physical examination. The assessment of pulse strength is an important step in evaluating circulation and can help in diagnosing the severity of PAD.

In contrast, increased femoral pulse strength and warm skin temperature would typically suggest good blood flow and are not consistent with PAD, where one would expect to find diminished pulses and potentially cold skin due to impaired circulation. Intact distally located pulses would also indicate adequate blood flow, which is contrary to the findings expected in a patient with PAD, where distally located pulses may be weak or absent depending on the severity of the disease.