Q: Why do my legs start hurting when I walk?
A: You may be describing claudication, characterized as an aching, crampy, tired and occasional burning pain in the legs that typically occurs with walking and goes away with rest.
Claudication is caused by poor circulation of blood in the arteries of the legs. As it worsens, the distance walked before experiencing pain becomes shorter and shorter, and more disabling. It is the main symptom of peripheral artery disease.
Schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine a diagnosis and treatment options.
Dr. Chris Lesar is a vascular surgeon at Vascular Institute of Chattanooga and a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.
Contributed Photo / Dr. Chris Lesar