Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), which includes intermittent claudication, refers to pain and cramping in the legs that starts after walking for 5-10 minutes. It is relieved by stopping and sitting until the pain subsides. PAD is caused by a blockage that limits the free flow of blood and oxygen in the vessels to the legs. Oxygen supply does not meet the exercising muscles’ demands. In response to this higher demand, the body reduces chemicals that open blood vessels (e.g., nitric oxide) and increases chemicals that narrow blood vessels (thromboxane, serotonin, angiotensin II, endothelin, norepinephrine). There is also some evidence that blood cells may become abnormal and prone to forming clots.
Since normal weight bearing exercises are problematic with this condition, aerobic arm workouts increase blood flow in the legs. An arm ergometer – a tabletop device that has bicycle-like pedals that are operated by the arms is one way to do it.
In advanced cases, PAD obstructs the arteries in the leg to the degree that even rest offers no relief and pain can continue even when lying down, a condition called ischemic rest pain.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Leg cramps
- Intermittent claudication
Symptoms:
- Leg cramps that only occur with walking or exercising and subside with rest
Signs to look for:
- Leg cramps that only occur with walking or exercising and subside with rest
Possible Causes:
- The major risk factors for heart disease are also risk factors for PAD and intermittent claudication:
- Diabetes
- High lipid and cholesterol levels
- Smoking
- Family history of artery disorder
- Deficiencies in the B vitamins, folic acid, vitamin B6 and B12 boost homocysteine levels.
Goals:
- Stimulate circulation in feet
- Reduce foot pain
- Exercise program to return to regular walking
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear heels and pumps minimally
- Walk barefoot minimally
Activities:
- Medical treatment and supervision of exercise program
- Non weight bearing exercising – swimming or using arm ergometer
- Regular stretching program, paying attention to Achilles tendon, gastrocnemius, soleus and anterior tibialis
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Text: G. Copeland, DPM, The Foot Book, umm.edu/patiented/articles, Bottom Line’s Health Breakthroughs 2008