What is the normal value for Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)?

The normal value for the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) is approximately 1.0. The ABI is a simple, non-invasive test used to assess arterial blood flow to the limbs and is calculated by measuring the blood pressure in the ankle and comparing it to the blood pressure in the arm (brachial artery). A value of 1.0 indicates that the blood pressure in the ankle is equal to that in the arm, suggesting normal blood flow.

Values below 0.9 typically indicate peripheral artery disease (PAD), while values above 1.2 may indicate non-compliance of the artery or calcification, which is often seen in diabetics. Thus, a reading of 1.0 denotes a healthy state with neither restricted blood flow nor arterial rigidity, which is crucial information during a geriatric assessment, as older adults are at a higher risk for vascular issues.