Final answer:
An Ankle Brachial Index less than 1 suggests peripheral artery disease (PAD), indicating that blood flow in the legs is compromised and may require further medical assessment and treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
An Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) that is less than 1 suggests the presence of peripheral artery disease (PAD). The ABI is a diagnostic test used to assess the circulation in the legs by comparing the blood pressure at the ankle with the blood pressure in the arm. A normal ABI range is 1.0 to 1.4, indicating good blood flow. An ABI less than 1.0 indicates that there may be significant narrowing of the blood vessels in the legs, which can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and even risk for more serious complications.
When an ABI is lower than expected, further assessment and treatment may be required to improve blood flow and manage symptoms. Healthcare providers often use this index as part of a comprehensive approach to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions.