Are you struggling to walk or climb stairs due to chronic leg pain? Does the pain subside when you rest or when you change positions? This pain could be a sign of a nerve issue or a circulation problem known as PAD. 

Understanding the difference between leg pain caused by poor circulation vs. nerve damage will help you get in control of your health and know what options are available to help relieve pain.

When Leg Pain Requires Rest: Understanding Neurogenic vs Vascular Claudication

Claudication is the medical term used to describe cramping pain in the legs that’s triggered by physical activity and relieved at rest. There are two types of claudication:

• Leg pain from poor circulation (vascular claudication)
• Leg pain from nerve damage (neurogenic claudication) 

Leg Pain from Poor Circulation (Vascular Claudication)

The most common cause of circulation-related pain is peripheral artery disease (PAD), which results from the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. As plaque builds up, it causes the arteries to narrow, reducing the flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients. This can lead to leg pain, cramping, and fatigue. Pain can occur in one or both legs, depending on the location of the affected arteries.

Leg Pain From Nerve Compression (Neurogenic Claudication)

Conditions that cause spinal nerve compression can cause pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in the legs and lower back area. Pain is typically relieved when sitting, bending forward, or changing positions. 

The Difference Between Leg Pain From Nerve Damage Vs. Poor Circulation

While pain can be similar, there are key differences between nerve pain vs. circulation-related pain that can help determine the cause of discomfort. Here’s how the pain differs:

Onset and Relief

If your pain disappears the moment you stop walking and stand still, it’s likely a circulation problem (PAD). If you have to lean over a shopping cart or sit down completely to get relief, it’s often a nerve issue. 

Symptom Location and Sensation

Cramping, fatigue, and heaviness in the calves are typically caused by circulation-related pain. While nerve compression pain usually causes numbness, tingling, or burning in the thigh area of the legs and lower back. 

Circulation and Skin Signs

If you notice skin discoloration or have cold feet, it’s likely circulation-related pain caused by PAD, while nerve compression pain does not cause any changes in skin temperature or color.

See If Your Symptoms Are Related to PAD

Why Differentiating Leg Pain From Nerve Damage Vs. Poor Circulation Matters

Leg pain caused by nerve damage or vascular claudication is a serious health condition that requires a medical diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to effectively relieve discomfort.

Circulation-related pain is a warning sign of PAD, which is a progressive disease that requires treatment to stop the disease from worsening. Nerve compression pain may indicate spinal degeneration and may need physical therapy, pain management, or surgical options. 

Proper testing is required for an accurate medical diagnosis for both conditions. If a medical provider believes the cause of claudication is PAD-related, minimally invasive treatment is an option.

Treatment for PAD and Leg Pain From Poor Circulation

After a thorough examination, treatment recommendations will depend on the diagnosis of the condition. If PAD is diagnosed, USA Vascular Centers specializes in three minimally invasive treatments for peripheral artery disease to help restore blood flow.

• Angioplasty: A small balloon attached to a catheter is placed into the artery. The balloon expands and pushes plaque against the artery walls to restore blood flow. 
• Stenting: A stent is used to prop open the affected artery. Stenting can be done on its own or after an angioplasty is performed.
• Atherectomy: A laser or small blade physically removes the plaque from the affected artery to restore blood flow. 

Next Steps for Managing Leg Pain From Poor Circulation 

Leg pain during physical activity is often caused by an underlying issue. If it’s circulation-related pain, it could be peripheral artery disease (PAD), which demands immediate, specialized attention.

Schedule a consultation with a vascular specialist to determine if you’re experiencing leg pain from poor circulation caused by PAD. Our team will develop a personalized plan to help restore mobility and improve your health.

Call Now to Schedule a PAD Evaluation

FAQs About Claudication and Leg Pain Causes

Can both vascular and neurogenic claudication occur at the same time?

Individuals can experience both leg pain from poor circulation and nerve damage simultaneously, which can complicate diagnosis. If you experience leg pain or cramping during physical activity, consult a vascular specialist to rule out peripheral artery disease (PAD). Since PAD is progressive and carries serious health risks, ensuring a vascular condition is accurately diagnosed should be a priority. 

Can vascular or neurogenic claudication improve or resolve on its own?

Both leg pain from poor circulation and nerve damage typically do not improve or resolve on their own and require medical evaluation and treatment to prevent symptoms from worsening. 

How quickly does vascular and neurogenic progress?

The progression of leg pain from poor circulation and nerve damage varies based on the underlying cause, severity, and how early treatment begins.