Skip to main content
Intermediate Technical IVT

intermittent claudication

Exercise-induced muscle pain due to inadequate blood supply that resolves with rest.

Full Definition

Intermittent claudication is a characteristic symptom of peripheral arterial disease where patients experience cramping, aching, or fatigue in leg muscles during physical activity that is promptly relieved by rest. This condition results from insufficient arterial blood flow to meet the metabolic demands of exercising muscles. In vascular medicine documentation, the specific muscle groups affected, walking distance tolerance, and symptom severity are critical details that require precise editorial handling to ensure accurate clinical communication.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish from neurogenic claudication, which has different etiology and treatment approaches.

In Context

  • "The patient reported intermittent claudication after walking two blocks, which resolved within minutes of rest." — Patient history documentation
  • "Intermittent claudication severity was assessed using standardized walking distance protocols." — Clinical study report

Also known as

exercise-induced leg pain vascular claudication

Contrasted with

rest pain

Don't confuse with

neurogenic claudication rest pain

Editors from these organisations have used our services since 1998

Reuters BBC Oxford University Press Penguin Random House Springer Microsoft Suncor Energy United Nations Fisher Investments IBM The Home Depot KODAK CHEVRON