Claudication Pain :
Claudication pain is crampy muscle pain, usually of the legs, that develops on exercising or walking and is relieved by rest. It is induced by decreased blood flow to the muscles, commonly as a result of peripheral artery disease. The cramping, aching, or tight pain is usually in the calf but sometimes in the thighs or buttocks. Claudication is a manifestation of subclinical vascular disease, usually due to atherosclerosis presenting as plaque accretion within the arteries. Patients with underlying diseases like uncontrolled blood sugars, hypertension, kidney disease, dyslipidemia, and prolonged unhealthy lifestyle are more prone to develop claudication pain. Diagnosis is made by imaging studies, which include ultrasound and angiogram in a few cases. Therapeutic management involves the reestablishment of blood supply and entails lifestyle modification, including smoking cessation, exercise, and reduction of risk factors, such as hypertension and cholesterol. Large cases are often managed with the use of drugs and or procedure interventions, including angioplasty or bypass surgery. Claudication pain cannot be left untreated as it can lead to ischemia.