Caudication

Question 1

What is claudication

Answer 1

Aching, tired, cramp, burning pain mainly In the legs, uni or bilaterally. Occurs during exercise and walking; hinders daily activity

Question 2

Epidemiology and risk factors of claudication

Answer 2

Peripheral artery disease, most common cause of claudication
Smoking, diabetets, hypertension, high cholesterol
More common in older adults, 50s
Prevelance 8ncresses with age
History of cardiovascular disease

Question 3

Clinical presentation of claudication

Answer 3

Pain, cramping or weakness in the legs with daily physical activity
Symptoms improve with rest
Pain loacatedd in the calves thighs and glutes
Bilateral, unilateral pain; pain in both or 1 legs
Pain is more severe at night
Shining, hairless skin on legs
Absent or weak pulse in LEX
Paler
Reduce skin temp in the region

Question 4

Systemic effects of claudication

Answer 4

Impaired mobility and excercise tolerance
Decreased QOL due to limitations in physical activity
Risk of progression to critical limb ischemia if left untreated
Increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality

Question 5

Pathology of claudication

Answer 5

Caused by reduced blood flow to the muscles during excercise. Typically due to arteriosclerosis which leads to narrowing or blockage of artists. Reduced blood flow results in inadequate O2 supply to the muscles, causing pain and discomfort

Question 6

Differential diagnosis of claudication

Answer 6

Neurogenic claudication (spinal stenosis)
Muscular skeletal causes (arthritis, muscle strain)
Venous insufficiency
Peripheral neuropathy
Chebidi compartment cyndrome
DOMS
Muscle strain

Question 7

Treatment of claudication

Answer 7

Lifestyle modifications; smoking, excercise , diet
Medications; statins, warfarin, anti platelet agents
Endivascukar/ surgical interventions
Supervised activity modifications