Claudication (from the Latin word meaning “to limp”) is a symptom of an underlying disease or condition. Meaning discomfort or pain in a group of muscles, leg claudication is the main symptom of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). However, claudication may be caused by a number of other diseases or factors.

Peripheral arterial disease is a condition in which the arteries in one or more limbs have become clogged with deposits of plaque. Claudication occurs when the muscles are not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood through the narrowed blood vessels. Whereas early stages are marked by pain only after physical activity, later stages are marked by constant pain that occurs even at rest. Claudication occurs mainly in older people, but it is not considered a normal part of the aging process.

Treatment of claudication centers on treating the underlying disease. If the claudication is caused by peripheral arterial disease, treatment usually begins with lifestyle changes, such as exercising to improve one’s fitness level and eating a heart-healthy diet.

Medications may also be prescribed, such as vasodilators to widen blood vessels or antiplatelets to help prevent the formation of potentially fatal blood clots in the narrowed blood vessels. More invasive procedures such balloon angioplasty with stenting or vascular surgery may also be helpful in relieving symptoms, particularly if symptoms are severe and/or the patient is young enough to withstand surgical intervention.