PAD Pain When Walking: How It Differs from Other Types of Leg Pain

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common condition that impacts millions of people, causing pain and discomfort in the legs. This condition occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the limbs become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow and leading to various symptoms, including pain while walking. Understanding how PAD pain differs from other types of leg pain is essential, especially when symptoms can overlap with conditions like muscle cramps, sciatica, and blood clots. This blog will provide insight into PAD, its symptoms, and how to differentiate its pain from other common leg conditions.

Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Peripheral Artery Disease, also known as PAD, refers to the narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the legs and arms. It occurs when plaque builds up on the walls of arteries, reducing blood flow.

Over 8 million people in the United States suffer from PAD, with many unaware of their condition. The primary cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, a process in which fat, cholesterol, and other substances form plaque, which then obstructs the arteries.

Common risk factors for PAD include:

• Age (usually over 50)
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure

Common Symptoms of PAD

The most common symptoms of PAD include:

• Cramping
• Fatigue
• Pain in the legs, especially after walking

This pain is often referred to as claudication and is typically felt in the calves, thighs, or buttocks. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe aching, which usually subsides with rest. However, in more severe cases, the pain may persist even at rest.

Other symptoms to look out for include:

• Coldness or numbness in the legs
• Weak pulse in the legs or feet
• Shiny or pale skin on the legs
• Hair loss on the legs

It’s important to note that PAD pain when walking is often triggered by physical activity due to increased oxygen demand, and relief comes with rest.

PAD Pain vs. Other Leg Pain

Understanding how PAD pain differs from other types of leg pain is crucial in getting the right diagnosis and treatment. Here’s how PAD pain compares with other common causes of leg pain:

Leg Cramps:

Leg cramps, commonly referred to as charley horses, are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that often occur at night or during physical activity. Unlike PAD pain, which is caused by poor circulation, leg cramps are typically due to dehydration, overexertion, or an electrolyte imbalance.

Key differences:

• Leg cramps are sharp and sudden but last only a few seconds to minutes.
• PAD pain is more persistent and may worsen over time, especially with continued activity.

Muscle Strain:

A muscle strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn, often due to physical exertion or improper use. Unlike PAD, which is related to blood flow issues, muscle strain pain is localized to the area of injury and improves with rest and proper treatment, such as applying ice or heat.

Key differences:

• Muscle strain pain is localized and typically improves with movement and rest.
• PAD pain, particularly from claudication, persists during activity and resolves only with rest.

Nerve-Related Pain (Sciatica):

Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, typically radiating down the leg. The pain is often sharp, burning, or tingling and is frequently accompanied by numbness.

Key differences:

• Sciatica pain tends to be sharp and can radiate down the leg, often affecting the lower back or buttocks.
• PAD pain is more often a dull, aching pain in the muscles that worsens with walking and improves with rest.

Blood Clots:

Blood clots, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can lead to leg pain due to restricted blood flow. However, clot pain is typically more intense, persistent, and may be accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area.

Key differences:

• Blood clot pain is constant and doesn’t improve with movement, while PAD pain may subside with rest.
• Blood clots can cause visible swelling and are often more severe than PAD pain.

Understanding Claudication and Its Role in PAD

One of the hallmark symptoms of PAD is claudication, which is pain that occurs after walking a certain distance. This pain typically affects the calves, thighs, or buttocks, and it’s the result of inadequate blood flow during exercise.

Duration: Claudication pain generally lasts for a few minutes after walking and is relieved by resting. Over time, as PAD progresses, the distance a person can walk before experiencing pain shortens.

Relief methods:

• Rest: The pain typically subsides within a few minutes after stopping physical activity.
• Exercise: Although walking causes pain, some studies show that regular exercise can improve PAD symptoms by promoting better blood flow.

PAD Diagnosis and Treatment Options

If you suspect you have PAD, it’s essential to get a diagnosis as soon as possible. Diagnostic tools include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test: A non-invasive test that compares blood pressure in your ankle with the pressure in your arm to identify restricted blood flow.
• Ultrasound: This imaging technique can help visualize blockages in your arteries.

Treatment options for PAD include:

• Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and regular exercise can improve blood circulation.
• Medications: Blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medications to control blood pressure may be prescribed.
• Surgical options: In severe cases, procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow.

When to Seek Medical Attention for PAD

If you experience persistent leg pain, swelling, or skin changes, it’s important to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications like limb amputation.

You should see a vascular specialist if:

• The pain in your legs doesn’t go away with rest.
• You experience wounds or ulcers that don’t heal.
• There are noticeable changes in the color or temperature of your legs or feet.

Conclusion

Recognizing PAD signs and symptoms early on can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Claudication symptoms, such as pain in the legs while walking, should not be ignored as they are often linked to peripheral artery disease. If you’re experiencing leg pain or other symptoms of PAD, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Effective peripheral artery disease treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical interventions, can help you manage your condition and avoid further complications.

Take Action: Seek Medical Attention for PAD

If you’re concerned about your PAD signs and symptoms don’t delay seeking help. Early intervention can prevent severe consequences, such as amputation or heart disease. Schedule an appointment with North Atlanta Vascular Clinic (NAVC) to get a proper diagnosis and explore treatment options. The sooner you address PAD, the better your chances of improving your quality of life.