Heart test
Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index
The ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) compares blood pressure at the ankle with the arm to check for narrowed arteries in the legs.
Quick answer
Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index: what it is and what the results mean
The ABPI is a simple test that measures blood pressure in the ankle and the arm using a cuff and a hand-held Doppler probe, then compares them as a ratio. A lower ankle pressure suggests reduced blood flow to the leg.
- Why it is done: It is used to diagnose and assess peripheral arterial disease (narrowed leg arteries), to investigate leg pain on walking (claudication) or non-healing wounds, and to check whether compression bandaging is safe for leg ulcers.
- Understanding results: 0.
What it is
The ABPI is a simple test that measures blood pressure in the ankle and the arm using a cuff and a hand-held Doppler probe, then compares them as a ratio. A lower ankle pressure suggests reduced blood flow to the leg.
Why it is done
It is used to diagnose and assess peripheral arterial disease (narrowed leg arteries), to investigate leg pain on walking (claudication) or non-healing wounds, and to check whether compression bandaging is safe for leg ulcers.
What to expect
You rest lying down for a few minutes. A cuff is placed on the arm and ankle and inflated while a Doppler probe listens to the pulse. It is painless apart from cuff pressure and takes about 15–30 minutes.
Understanding the results
A normal ratio is around 1.0. Lower values suggest narrowing of the leg arteries, with lower numbers indicating more severe disease. Very high values can indicate stiff, hardened arteries. Results guide treatment and safe use of compression.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
It is safe and non-invasive. Results can be unreliable in people with very stiff arteries (such as some with diabetes), where the arteries do not compress normally, so extra tests may be needed.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index: frequently asked questions
Why is the ABPI checked before compression bandaging?
Compression is used to treat leg ulcers but can be harmful if the arteries are significantly narrowed. The ABPI checks that blood flow is good enough for compression to be applied safely.
Does the test hurt?
No, apart from the normal tight feeling of a blood pressure cuff inflating on the arm and ankle. It is quick and non-invasive.
Related tests
Other heart test investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- British Cardiovascular Society / relevant professional body
Building patient-education content for tests or procedures?
We create clear, accurate, referenced medical explainers and decision aids for teams.