It has been hypothesized that chronic inflammation is a biological mechanism underlying the decline in physical function that occurs with aging. It was recently reported that higher levels of D-dimer (fibrin degradation product) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) are associated with greater objectively assessed functional limitations in persons with PAD, but functional limitations refer to specific abilities, such as objectively measured walking speed or balance, which are distinct from disability. Furthermore, functional limitations may not fully explain disability.