Claudication

Claudication

Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease) Slideshow

Medical Author: John P. Cunha, DO
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

• What is claudication?
• Why does claudication come and go?
• What can cause the artery narrowing that leads to claudication?
• Who typically is affected by claudication?
• What is the prognosis and treatment for patients with intermittent claudication?

What is claudication?

Claudication is pain and/or cramping in the lower leg due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles. The pain usually causes the person to limp. The word "claudication" comes from the Latin "claudicare" meaning to limp. Claudication typically is felt while walking, and subsides with rest. It is commonly referred to as "intermittent" claudication because it comes and goes with exertion and rest. (In severe claudication, the pain is also felt at rest.)