Blockage of leg arteriesDefinition Poor circulation and blockage of blood in the leg arteries produces an aching, tired, and sometimes burning pain in the legs. This pain is brought on by exercise, and relieved by rest. The limping that occurs from leg cramps is called claudication. Considerations This condition may occur in both legs, and the symptoms often get worse over time. However, some people complain only of weakness in the legs when walking, or a feeling of "tiredness" in the buttocks. Impotence is an occasional complaint in men. Pain at rest is uncommon. Common Causes This condition is due to atherosclerosis or peripheral vascular disease. Narrowed or blocked arteries can occur anywhere in the body. If they occur in the heart, a person may have heart pain (angina) or even a heart attack. If arteries are blocked or narrowed in the neck or the brain, a person may have a stroke. Intermittent claudication is when the blockage occurs in the legs, most commonly in the calf or the foot. It occurs only at certain times, such as after a period of walking, and is relieved by rest. Atherosclerosis can occur for many reasons such as smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Home Care Talk to your doctor about the cause of your leg cramping and about what to do at home to relieve it. A healthy diet is important to keep atherosclerosis from getting worse. A program of daily walking for short periods, and stopping for pain or cramping, may help improve function. You MUST stop smoking. Avoid placing hot or cold items on legs. Avoid tight shoes. Have your doctor check any non-healing wounds on the lower legs and feet. Call your health care provider if There are many other causes of leg pain such as arthritis or low blood potassium. However, some causes of leg pain may be life-threatening such a blood clot in the legs. Seek medical attention if you have:
What to expect at your health care provider's office Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and ask questions about your cramping leg pain and other symptoms, such as:
The provider may check the pulse in the groin and other areas where the pulse can be felt in the legs. The following tests may be performed:
TREATMENT Surgery or angioplasty may be recommended if claudication interferes with the patient's activities or work, and if the diseased arteries are likely to improve after corrective treatment. Page Content: Claudication; Intermittent claudication; Vaso-occlusive disease of the legs; Arterial insufficiency of the legs; Recurrent leg pain and cramping; Calf pain with exercise ; intermittent claudication; treatment intermittent claudication; claudication; claudication intermittent; claudication neurogenic; anxiety claudication depression heart insomnia pounding; claudication jaw; claudication definition; claudication leg; claudication vascular; claudication symptom; claudication spinal; claudication define; claudication treatment; claudication intermittent treatment |