A pulse represents the rhythmic expansion and contraction of arteries as blood is pumped through them by the heart. Checking pulses in the feet offers a straightforward, non-invasive method for individuals to gain insight into their circulatory health and blood flow to the lower extremities. Understanding how to locate and assess these pulses can be a valuable part of personal health awareness.
Primary Pulse Locations in the Foot
The foot contains two main arteries where a pulse can be readily detected: the dorsalis pedis artery and the posterior tibial artery. These specific points are chosen for pulse assessment because they are relatively superficial and accessible, making their pulsations easier to feel. Each artery provides blood flow to different regions of the foot, offering a comprehensive overview of lower limb circulation.
The dorsalis pedis artery is located on the top, or dorsal surface, of the foot. It typically runs between the tendons of the first and second toes, slightly closer to the ankle joint. This artery supplies oxygenated blood to the dorsal side of the foot. Its position makes it a primary site for assessing peripheral blood flow.
The posterior tibial artery is found on the inner side of the ankle, specifically behind the medial malleolus, which is the prominent bony bump on the inside of the ankle. This artery is approximately one to two finger-widths behind and slightly below the medial malleolus. It is a major vessel supplying the posterior compartment of the leg and the sole of the foot.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Your Foot Pulse
Checking your foot pulse requires a relaxed approach and careful technique to accurately locate the subtle pulsations. Begin by ensuring you are in a comfortable position, perhaps sitting with your foot slightly relaxed or extended, allowing easy access to the top and inner ankle. Using your index and middle fingers, or a combination of two or three fingers, is recommended, while avoiding the thumb, which has its own pulse and can lead to confusion.
To find the dorsalis pedis pulse, gently place your fingertips on the top of your foot, between the first and second toes, moving slightly towards the ankle. Apply light but firm pressure, gradually adjusting your finger position and pressure until you feel a rhythmic throbbing sensation. The dorsalis pedis artery can be made more prominent by extending your big toe upwards. Once located, count the beats for 15 seconds and multiply that number by four to determine the beats per minute (BPM).
For the posterior tibial pulse, position your fingertips behind and slightly below the medial malleolus, the inner ankle bone. The artery lies in a groove between this bone and the Achilles tendon. Similar to the dorsalis pedis, apply gentle yet firm pressure, moving your fingers slightly until you detect the pulse. Some find it helpful to slightly dorsiflex or invert the foot to better expose the area.
Interpreting Your Findings and When to Seek Medical Attention
After locating and counting your pulse, understanding what the findings might indicate can provide useful health insights. A normal pulse exhibits a regular rhythm, meaning the beats occur at consistent intervals. The strength of the pulse should be moderate, palpable without excessive pressure, and not feel overly strong or weak. For resting adults, a pulse rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute is generally considered normal.
Variations in pulse characteristics can suggest underlying issues. A pulse that is weak, difficult to find, or absent in one or both feet may indicate reduced blood flow to the extremities. While the dorsalis pedis pulse can be congenitally absent in a small percentage of healthy individuals, and the posterior tibial pulse is very rarely absent, a new absence or consistent difficulty in finding a pulse warrants attention. An irregular rhythm, where beats are unevenly spaced, could suggest an arrhythmia.
You should seek medical attention if you consistently find an absent pulse in one or both feet, especially if it is a new change for you. Similarly, if there is a significant difference in pulse strength or presence between your two feet, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Any new onset of a weak, absent, or significantly irregular pulse, particularly when accompanied by symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, coolness, or discoloration in the foot or leg, warrants prompt medical evaluation.