Intermediate
Technical
IVT
claudication distance
Specific walking distance at which a patient develops leg pain due to inadequate blood flow during exercise.
Full Definition
Claudication distance refers to the reproducible walking distance at which patients with peripheral arterial disease develop characteristic leg pain, cramping, or fatigue that forces them to stop and rest. This measurement is typically categorized as initial claudication distance (when symptoms first appear) and absolute claudication distance (when patient must stop walking). Claudication distance serves as an important functional assessment tool and outcome measure in vascular surgery practice.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify units (meters/feet) and distinguish from pain-free walking distance when relevant.
In Context
- "The patient's claudication distance improved from 50 meters to 300 meters following revascularization." — follow-up assessment
- "Standardized treadmill testing confirmed a claudication distance of 150 meters at 2 mph." — diagnostic evaluation
Also known as
walking distance
claudication threshold
Don't confuse with
pain-free walking distance
maximum walking distance