Introduction

The aim of the study was to determine whether peripheral artery disease (PAD) leads to impaired perfusion in the upper limbs and reduced physical performance assessed by handgrip strength, which could suggest the progression of atherosclerosis to the arteries of the upper limbs.

Material and methods

The study included 36 men with chronic lower limb ischemia at stage II or III according to the Fontaine classification. The ankle-brachial index, claudication distance, and handgrip strength were measured, along with oxygen saturation levels in both upper and lower limbs.

Results

No difference in handgrip strength was found between participants with PAD and healthy peers. A correlation was observed between claudication distance and oxygen saturation measured in the left upper limb (LUL) (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (Rs) = 0.342, p = 0.041 in the entire study group and Rs = 0.607, p = 0.021 in participants with ischemia in the right lower limb (RLL)). A correlation was found between oxygen saturation in the RLL and right-hand grip strength (Rs = 0.338, p = 0.044 in the entire study group and Rs = 0.481, p = 0.024 in participants with ischemia in the LLL), as well as between RLL saturation and left-hand grip strength (Rs = 0.452, p = 0.035 in participants with ischemia in the LLL).

Conclusions

Despite the impact of PAD on physical performance and mobility, the disease does not directly reduce upper limb muscle strength, although lower oxygenation of the lower limbs may be associated with it.