Upon taking the popliteal blood pressure of a patient with unilateral distal limb pain,the physical therapist notes that the popliteal pulse is easily palpable (compared to the nonsymptomatic side)and that the blood pressure is 95/65 mm Hg (upper limb reading 145/90 mm Hg).Which one of the following pathologies should be ruled out before proceeding with the rest of the physical examination?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The easily palpable popliteal pulse and normal popliteal blood pressure suggest that a popliteal aneurysm may be present and should be ruled out before continuing with the examination. A deep venous thrombosis, restless leg syndrome, or femoral artery occlusion would not produce these findings.

Upon Taking the Popliteal Blood Pressure of a Patient with Unilateral