This advice works! I made a lot of unfortunate lifestyle choices and only realized my walking distance was about one city block before I was hit with very intense pain in my calves. My doctor gave me this same advice. I walked and walked and walked, always up to level 3, rested and started again. It wasn’t easy, but after 1 year, I was up to 6000 steps without stopping (much). In the third year, I built up to 10.000 steps. Now, 5 years later, I can walk indefinitely. Longer hills can still be challenging, but I still push it to the limit. The goal is to trigger angiogenesis, which is the growth of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature to supply the muscles with good blood around the blockages. Initially, I was depressed about my situation, but as time passed, I saw that my progress was directly linked to the sensible intensity of my training. In this case it’s truly “no pain, no gain”. You can do it!
I cannot thank you enough for this video...6 weeks of these exercises and walking most days, and I finally did 30 minutes of pain free walking for the first time in 6 years!!
@@stevenmccormick9883 I don’t think so but it doesn’t hurt to try. I’ve had it for 8 years with bypass in the leg and stent in the right which has blocked up for the 4th time. To get disability from what I understand, it has to do with the distance a person can reasonably walk without pain.
i just found out that i may have this disease and i'm genuinely so terrified for my future. i'm 18, have been overweight all my life and have postponed my health and losing weight, eating healthier... everything, all my life. i swear on myself and my dignity, i'm ending this horrible lifestyle i've looped myself into today. i'm exercising daily, and starting a very rough diet soon. there's nothing more scarier than just starting to feel your own person, feeling independent then recognizing how bad you messed up all your life. i'm 254 pounds right now and i am going to change starting today. i'm done with this lifestyle. i'm sorry for writing this here, and i really appreciate this video, i have hope in my future now.💗
Don’t feel bad for posting this. Please don’t give up! I was overweight too. The pain in my legs was really bad and I ignored it for years. I am 50 and I had my surgery yesterday. Right on time. Please don’t procrastinate your visit to the doctor to check your veins, eat healthy, excersise
I experienced claudication in my left calf in 2013. The pain was really bad after only walking about 100 meters. My Dr sent me for a ultrasound which showed low blood flow in an artery in my left thigh. He then referred me to a Vascular Surgeon who further checked the blood flow by feeling for a pulse in my groin and an associated pulse in my lower leg. He immediately confirmed that I had a blocked artery. Two days later I spent a day in hospital having a stent placed in the artery. This was done via a wire inserted in my groin. After a couple of hours of recovery I was sent home. The procedure was 100% effective and I haven't had a any claudication related pain since. Whilst the exercise approach is no doubt beneficial I think that it's wise to also get a referral to a Vascular Surgeon as stenting of the effected artery can fix the problem as it has for me for nine years and ongoing.
Agreed. Exercise won't cure this condition, only help you manage it. If it get's really bad then taking the advice of the doctor with potential surgery may be the way forward for some people for their quality of life. Thank you for sharing, and please keep exercising to reduce the risk of further atherosclerosis in the future.
@@ExerciseForHealth Absolutely. I'm 71 and retired now. I do weights at the gym 3times a week, walk 5 days a week at least 6K and play golf on Wednesday. I find exercise really addictive.
I also had a stent placed behind the knee. The stent after 7 years is now blocked and cannot be repaired, referred to surgeon for bypass. But I was also told that exercise as depicted would help defer or at least make the surgery far more successful . Also Blood pressure and weight gain needs to be reduced. Glad I found this site!
I did all the exercises and eventually due to a blocked artery and stent which kept blocking up, had a bypass. So far it’s going on almost 5 years and vascular surgeons in Atlanta area told me that the lifetime of a stent is 5 years. The stent in my other leg has been cleaned out 4 times and I’m going to have a bypass in that leg soon. Stents are just a patch for the inevitable bypass. It’s a battle fighting this disease.
“atherosclerosis”??? Natural process…”PAD or PVD”??? common condition…wow!!!! Finally someone that puts these conditions into perspective…not the case if you’re young but people over certain age eventually go and these are part of aging naturally - some can avoid it (dying of cancer or other reasons). But the heart is the hardest working organ - you can only get so many years out of it. 🙏👍
Great video. I have never been diagnosed, but ever since i was young and even in my twenties, i cannot go up a little hill after a minute as i get severe upper leg pain n become breathless. The pain so bad i cannot resume the climb. My heart is good, clean, and i have very low blood pressure approx 90/58. I am now 59yrs old. I lost 57kgs but the problem remains. Walking flat is not a problem, i can walk 7kms, and on a very good day manage a sharp one off incline, but nearly always, i have to stop.
@@ExerciseForHealth yes i have wondeted for years. No visible varicose veins either. Only problem is, i am os at moment in my fav mountains. In australia i cannot walk, perhaps pollution from city, but here... i immediately walked kms n then 7kms! Strange. The air in mountains is def better but the uphill problem.as i wrote remains.
Thanks for this video! Walking and climbing stairs for me is a nightmare these days. It is so hard that I have to take support of something every time I climb the stairs and it is really embarrassing for me as a teenager in school. This has happened over the course of 2 years in the pandemic. Before this, I was totally fine and could run up and down stairs easily. I hope this works for me and I’ll try my best to not give up. Thank you!
@@imtiazfaisal210 oh no I don’t I don’t think I ever will too.. not even once I have no interest in smoking lmao I don’t find it cool like most teenagers P.S My legs are A LOT better now:)) The key is to walk. Just WALK! And it’s fine now After a sedentary lifestyle of 2 years, this had to happen But now I feel so good I can walk normally.
Thanks for your exercises. At 90, I love them. And they give me a reason to get up and do something for my sedentary life. Plus I recently had a stent placed in my leg to increase blood flow. Thanks from a. Yank.
This is the very best video I have watched for the problem of Claudication. Well done indeed. I am on the right track but must walk more. Judith from New Zealand
Hi! I would like to know what treatment did doctor suggested to you? It's been a year and my legs still hurting every time I lay down, but I still don't know if I have one (manifesting that I really don't have one), due to financial issues. I really would like to know so that I can prevent from worsing🙏 I'm still saving some money for check up (I'm just 19 years old, btw) Thank you so much in advance for your answers 🙏
Maybe I'm pushing myself too hard, as I am walking and cycling untill the pain is unbearable and I have to stop. cycling is easier because I can intermittently freewheel, but am I putting pressure on the arteries from sitting on a saddle? I'm using my bike more because things like carrying shopping bring on the pain quicker, so I put the shopping bags on the bike and push it letting the bike take the weight. I am pleased I found your video and will do the exercises you demonstrated when I can't get out.
Seated exercise on the bike will be fine and should feel less painful as the stress through the lower leg muscles is lower than when on your feet like walking.
@@ExerciseForHealth I managed to stop pain without realising it, I decided to change what I was eating and cut out all sugar containing products, along with grains. I'm still getting some minor numbness feeling but the pain side of it has gone, this has happened within two weeks of diet change and yesterday I was able to cycle a mile at a good speed with no pain, just a little fatigue more like normal and slight numbing. I didn't realise how much sugar inflammes arteries until now.
Thank You so much, very informative, well explained, I have been diagnosed for symptoms of claudication yesterday. Experiencing burning sensation in soles of the feet, thigh muscles. Will start the exercises. Thanks Once again.
With my pad being quite severe .. I choose to take a bus into town..and spend three hours daily walking round the shops and window shopping.. it's amazing what ground I cover by walking in and out of shops and precincts .. Plus there's many places in a town to sit down as benches are scattered everywhere ..so all told I do get a fair amount of distance covered, I generally catch a bus back home as it is extremely tiring.. I , however do have severe pain in my legs when Its bed time and my legs have to dangle downwards on the outside of the bed ..as my pain never goes away with rest anymore. But I'm generally keeping this routine up as long as it's viably possible ..
Window shopping is not adequate exercise, as it involves too much stopping and rest. The proper exercise as therapy is continuous walking through the pain - you must endure the pain for this to help. The pain is what alerts the body to start building new pathways for circulation. If you have pain at rest and bedtime, your condition is more advanced and may require more direct intervention. You should consult a doctor on this - do not wait
Thank you In addition to exercise I believe that after dinner and after taking your medicine if any with water or green tea at night eat some 10 to 15 grapes with water or gt. you would be in a better condition after some time. bye joseph from mauritius
Just came across this video. Excellent presentation; very informative. I'm impressed, and have quickly subscribed to view your other videos. Great work! 👍 You deserve more views and subscribers.
I have a severely arthritic right knee from sports etc growing up. I played basketball 1 hour a day 4 days a week at lunch, gym 3 times a week strength training and martial arts twice a week. I never had an issue until MA class. Calf would burn unbearably during warm ups. Figured it had to do with my knee and running barefoot. I have to wear arch support for flat feet . Would never happen any other time. All of a sudden this Spring I can barely walk a few feet without severe burning and stiffness. Also experiencing pain in foot, coldness, slight pins and needles, bruising by both ankles and legs slightly swelling. Don't ignore these signs and believe it has to do with something else like being overweight etc! I have serious qualification now in everything I do. Even at rest. I am now gaining weight because of this which is making it worse. Thanks for the video
Good video. Will stop trying to "stretch out" the calf in the future. I also supplement with Propionyl L-Carnitine which has been very helpful when playing tennis at reducing instances of claudication in the foot and calf. I used to have the muscles of one leg get so tight due to reduced oxygen to the muscle that it felt like a railroad spike was being put through my foot. It wasn't a stretching pre-match issue. I've had several small clots in that lower leg and the resulting scar tissue restricts blood flow which at least mimic's claudication. For years, walking was always problematic and wished I'd come across your video back then. It still can cause me pain due to it's continuous action even with PLC supplemented. With tennis, I get a small rest during changeovers which helps the muscle recover. Wish I could say that the physical activity has fixed this problem, it hasn't and I've been active most of my adult life. Will say that despite this issue, my heart calcium score was 0, so assume the activity is at least beneficial for general heart health. PLC by itself is hard to come by (one manufacturer, Biovy) so am going to give GPLC (glycene added) a chance to see if the benefits are the same in case that supply drys up. Am nearly 60 and overweight but active. Thanks again.
Thank goodness I found your channel today, I will now start exercising and hope my vascular consultant will be as pleased as I hope to be. I have an exercise bike, will that help? Thanks again
Yes for sure. Take a look at some of these workout videos that I've done too, as some might help you at home: ua-cam.com/play/PLf9i8qFtMBBK1VBEA-IlSw7VrXxrvxHUF.html
This condition has basically killed my quality of life. I've been treated for diabetes'HBP for over 20 years now. Have taken all the recommended supplements to be had over the last 20 years. Up to 2013 I was walking up to 5 miles 3 times a week,even with the pain of claudication;until I just couldn't walk without the danger of falling and breaking a hip due to balance/gait issues. Started a stationary bike since.... Last year had 2 stents placed on each of my legs,by 3 different doctors in 2 different hospitals/clinics....I've actually gotten worse..I can barely walk 20 steps before my legs spread out as if I were riding a horse,and my gait changes and my legs feel heavier than ever and my shins feels like they are being pressed by a vice grip. Been walking with a cane for 5 years now...When at home have to be constantly grabbing walls/doors furniture as not to lose my balance or trip over my own feet. Didn't help that last year I had a big toe amputation because of gangrene. I barely leave my house other than work/groceries...I have to count the steps from my doorway to the parking lot/the trash bin just to make sure I can make it ...Can barely do the bike anymore..Just 5 minutes...stop for 10 or more...do 5 more minutes...The pain my shins/calves/ankles is unberarable..Of course this makes it useless to exercise...Progress is non-existent for whatever I exercise for. Hoping for a quick and sudden death to escape this hell on earth. I've lost all hope...It's quality not quantity of life. If I believed in God I would pray for a widow maker heart attack.
I am not a doctor, but I have some recent experience with PAD in my lower legs. In my experience, using a stationary bike is not an effective exercise for the lower leg (calf) muscles. Cycling primarily engages the upper quad muscles to flex the knees. Your lower legs (calf) activate the foot. There is very little foot activation in cycling as most of the force is being applied straight down the leg into the pedals. I use a sit-down - pedals in front - style cycle for warmup, and I experience no lower leg pain while doing it. However, I experience near immediate pain when I start a long walk. Walking primarily engages the lower leg muscles to activate the foot in pushing against the ground and raising your body higher. If you cannot walk or balance, you should find an equivalent exercise that will engage the lower leg by flexing the feet. Performing standing heel raises can do the trick. Also sitting and flexing your feet by alternately pointing and retracting your toes back and forth (ankle movement). The pain in necessary to indicate you are exercising the correct muscles and forcing blood into the appropriate area. The pain alerts the body to start building new peripheral arteries to feed the neglected area.
Is a stepper machine a helpful device to use? I see steppers and peddle machines and the stepper seems good based on the step exercises we do in the video.
A few years ago I had to quit hiking once P.A.D fully developed mostly in my right leg. I now use paved walking paths that have very little to no inclines. I found it quite surprising that swimming would not be beneficial. Could you please tell me weather or not bicycling would be beneficial for P.A.D
I mention that swimming can be a higher risk if you also have other associated heart conditions. It will probably be easier to swim for PAD because the stress on the lower leg muscles is very small, hence why you will get more benefit from other forms of exercise. Cycling will definitely be a good one!
Thank you so much for this video, so informative. I feel I have all the symptoms of this condition but have been told by a doctor that it can’t be PAD or intermittent claudication because I’m not a smoker, what investigations should be done to diagnose this. I have liked and subscribed to your channel. Thanks again 😊
Hey thanks. I'm not medically trained so couldn't tell you what investigations should be taken, although I can prescribe exercise to those that have a diagnosed condition. I don't think PAD is purely smoker related though, so it's worth getting a second opinion.
Thanks , Got all the symptoms , I take a nitro before hiking, yep 45 lbs. backpack ,bad heart and at 9000' . My rest period is about 8mins,walk 100' and stop and repeat. But once on level ground not too bad. At 63 and 40lbs over weight,smoker, and 3 stents in the heart I will not go easy into the night. I'm using and Niacin burn 2x week to help rid the cholesterol that is floating around do not know if it will remove the plackets.of fat in the veins.So far it's slow going but I got the time now.
This is such a Catch-22 for me though. The walking (even just standing still up for a few minutes) causes, usually, unbearable pain in my calf and/or leg that I HAVE TO stop walking or standing. I cannot walk very far before this pain sets in. In the evenings my calves/ankles are on fire from “overuse” I’m assuming. Tingling feet. I want to take walks now so badly but can’t. I feel like I’m screwed.
Sorry to hear this. Are you sure it's PVD causing all your symptoms (feet tingling sounds neurological)? I hope that your health care team/ doctor can provide you with some advice to help you lead a better quality of life.
@@ExerciseForHealth Thank you so much. I’m headed home in two weeks (I’ve been out of state for awhile, trying to care for my mother who was ill). When I get back, I will look into this with the health care team. I’ve already set up an appoint to see them. I do have some neurological issues, as you mentioned. I’m also 50-60 lbs overweight. I’ve lost 8-9 lbs since being here so, hopefully, I’m headed in the right direction. Thank you again for the nice response.
You'll probably find you can exercise for longer on a rowing machine or exercise bike before the claudication kicks in compared to walking, so yes do this if you can!
Hello fade up going to doctors got all the scans am old girl 80 and counting on patch allso on steroids injections the left leg all the way down to ankle is sometimes unbearable have to keep going , put a brave face on god only knows pg there will be no pain in heaven will just have to get on my bike thankks for video
Listen to the advice in this video, this can save your legs even your life. A low fat diet, salt, sugar along with exercise should be taken serious. Good luck if you decide to take the medical route. Surgery and Stents that just get blocked again and again, stents and more stents.
i can walk for 385 steps before lactic acid builds up in my left buttock & hip forcing me to stop , after i rest the distance i can walk gets less & less until i can manage only 40 steps before resting , my right ankle is swollen compared to my left , i was diagnosed with a chronic occlusion of the right coronary artery in 2006 but they said as i am still fairly fit they will leave it alone , i also had my right Carotid artery cleaned around the same time i am wondering now if i have PAD ,
Thank you for sharing. Obviously Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) can be linked as the mechanisms are very similar, so it's possible. Definitely worth getting checked by a qualified doctor.
Exercise cannot reverse the atherosclerosis process, but it can help slow down further progression of it, whilst helping you gain other benefits for a better quality of life.
Whats the best way to diagnose these sorts of arterial disease? My arteries hurt ive had ECG, bike test, holter test everything "fine" besides minor arrythmia. But i am certain there is something wrong with my arteries, they are often painful to touch and ive had systemic inflammation for years and huge infections in my leg. Im young but lived an unhealthy and idle lifestyle, but now im making changes. What do you suggest? Im thinking about requesting a calcium score test, but how do i find out if i have artery or micro artery problems?
1 was told by a vascular Surgeon about 4 months ago i had 20 percent blockage in my left ankle. he told me to walk my treadmill as long as possible with in a 40 min period. at first i could only do 5 to ten mins due to shin and calf pain before resting a few mins in between i now go an hour straight .still getting calf pain in the affected leg.i have stop often to re stretch the muscle before continuing ..which i see now is not good.is there an advantage to 60 min a posed to the suggested 40 ? i do this every day
I think I got this from bad eating and I’m 21, thankfully my legs not in pain after I walk just a little achie and maybe little cramps under my feet(right side mainly) but if I was on my feet for a while at the end of the day it aches so you think I can exercise normally because I don’t think it ever reaches a level 3 ??and I started noticing it recently when working but at first I just thought it was a normal leg aches after working but it stayed like this for a while and I work in a tractor all day sitting , Only thing really bothersome is I got tingling and pins feeling i get in my feet and hand now, not alot but sometimes, Is that normal for pad patients because if the less blood flow? I Feel it mainly in my feet and leg. I also started working in a tractor and those feelings are around where I grip the steering wheel and the other control but mainly in in my feet toes and leg so not sure if it’s pad related on my hands because the years before it didn’t do that.. And also that cold feeling around my leg not all the time but sometimes it happens. I first noticed it in December maybe when I was in bed and it felt like that with toe tingling. And when I would go outside and start walking I would get that cold feeling around one leg and I could feel it moving around my legs and it stops , I wanna note my left leg does look a little bigger than my right also like more fat on it, idk if that’s swelling or something else. I Have to wait for my checkup which is aug 12, best I can do is eat healthy and exercise through it. Sorry I wrote this fast. I wanna add My last checkup last year I was almost pre diabetic, got better then they told me to check back in 6 months which was this January and since then I wasn’t eating good which makes me believe this PAD thing is starting to happen to me. Thanks !!
I would be surprised if your symptoms relate to PAD because of your age unless your very unlucky. The pins and needles feeling point towards a nerve impingement which is more likely if you're sat down a lot in a tractor. Speak to your doctor about your symptoms though to be checked out for all possibilities, they will know best!
I get extreme pain when snowboarding, but only in my feet (not calves), it feels like lactic acid when you work out, but more intense. I have to stop, sit down, and take off my boots. After about 1-2 hours it goes away and I feel pretty good. I've had this since I was 16 and it made me stop snowboarding. I also get it when hiking. Do you think this be PAD, given I had it since 16?
I carry a heavy shopping bag, but once I get settled in, I'm alright on level ground. When I start off, I have to sit on garden walls for a short time.
Hey 👋 thanks for the video , i have recently been diagnosed and been suffering a couple of years I love the gym 🏋️♂️ and I have been avoiding leg days. Do you think i should continue resistance training on legs or leave it out
Still exercise the legs if you can because that will help with the blood flow. You may find that your legs "burn out" faster with this condition so you can't do as much, but it will help.
I’ve been recently diagnosed with PAD. I currently can only do about 100 yards on flat without having to stop. (Only 50) . Im awaiting follow up appointments.. will I require operations?
This is excellent. I have been living with PAD for 20 years and have had to Make my own exercise programes up . Cardio rehab helped me 3 times but fir PAD there has been nothing to help - how can I help you get this circulated through the NHS ?
I've seen a number of people in the cardiac rehab programmes I work in that are suffering with PAD and they sometimes find it difficult to keep up with the group, and have to be offered alternative exercises. I think that this condition warrants a programme by itself. Any sharing of this video would be great, as the more people it can help, the better! Thank you in advance 😊
New subscriber here. Great video! Can I ask... You've discouraged static stretching. What about dynamic stretching before starting exercises or long walks? And is backward walking of any use in this situation (PAD)? Thanks
Great, thanks for the subscription! Yes dynamic stretching should be OK as this will aid with blood supply and activate the muscles. It's definitely worth experimenting with it to see if it makes a difference. The "no static stretching" during the activity point was made in this video as it can relax the muscle creating an increased oxygen demand to fire it up again and increasing the onset of pain even quicker when you resume your activity again. Backward walking will initiate an eccentric (lengthening) contraction of the calf muscles rather than a concentric (shortening) contraction when you walk forwards. Therefore the muscles will still be working and require oxygen, but again, try experimenting with this and I would be interested to hear how you get on and whether it makes a difference to your symptoms. 👍
@@ExerciseForHealth I very much appreciate your quick - and detailed! - response. Thanks so much. I asked about walking backwards because I have tight calf muscles, and I hope this will help loosen them up. Thanks again.
Hi im suffering kind of symtoms since an year and i cant walk for half a KM now. Leg muscles stuffed and feeling numbness lower part of leg. Is there any medication as well along with the excercise? Plz help me
Should you wear weights on ankles when you walk? It starts to hurt so bad immediately when I play tennis but I just stop and re start and try to play, is that OK to do?
Having weights around your ankles will make the legs work harder therefore inducing claudication symptoms quicker, so I personally wouldn't advise this.
Hi...I have been experiencing pain in my buttock and thigh on the left side while walking (for over three years)...the pain subsides when I stop walking, so can't walk beyond 2-3minutes without pain...the neurologist/neuro surgeon opine that this is due to problem in L4-L5 area...your explanation seems to match my condition though i do not know the specialist medical professional who can officially either confirm my condition or otherwise...so would like your advise/recommendation as to the specialist doctor i should consult to get proper advise and treatment to get relief from pain and be able to walk for about 30 minutes...in the meantime, will the exercises demonstrated in this video be helpful??....thank you so much... namaste from Bangalore, India. 🙏🙏
Hi. It sounds like you have Sciatica symptoms with the pain you mentioned following an impinged nerve which could be aggravated by the walking movement, but it could be vascular in nature like in this video. I'm no medical practitioner so couldn't diagnose you, but it might be worth seeing a physio/ physical therapist if you think it's nerve impingement. If you can get a scan this will obviously help diagnose this. If you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, or have high cholesterol and you're over 60 and the pain is more excrutiating if the leg muscles have to work more (like walking up hill is worse than walking on a flat), then it's worth speaking with a doctor to get their opinion to see if it is some form of claudication. I hope this helps!
Hi , there are 2 things you need to notice , get tested for both ( l4-L5 ) using an MRI and also reach out yo vascular specialist. Doctors might be under assumption that sciatica is the issue , but it could also be PAD issue , you might also have both sciatica and PAD . One possible symptoms is that one of your leg will be cold
The only one that places more stress on the muscles around the knees is the split squat (last exercise). You can modify this by limiting the amount of movement or using a support for some of your bodyweight. The others should be OK as the knees aren't bending very much as more movement is placed through the ankle. The sit to stand can be done from a higher starting position if desired.
Are there any contraindications involving Vascular Intermittent Claudication exercise, when, also, one has Neurogenic Intermittent Claudication? Thanks.
I , a 16 year old premed, spend majority of my time sitting or lying on the bed studying for more than 16 hours a day.. and i have a very sedentary lifestyle atleast for the past few months.. as i stopped excercising completely.. and now when i started wanting to walk ...i get this pain in my lower legs... it's very intimidating and worsens when i stand up or walk... I don't know what I'm supposed to be doing...is it claudication.. ?? Is it PAD??
If you're only 16 years old, it's very unlikely. If you're sedentary, it's more likely to be stiff lower leg muscles that have reduced capacity for use. If you walk gently for at least 10 minutes, and the pain eases with time, it's most likely to be a musculoskeletal issue. If you are concerned though, you should seek advice form a medical professional.
@@ExerciseForHealth thanks.. i ain't having that pain...turns out i tried doing frog jumping a day before..so that's what caused that pain.. And I'm trying to be a bit more active
Maybe. I've seen them advertised and don't know much about them other than it's supposed to improve circulation. I'm sure it will help while you're sat down, but not sure if this will increase your threshold for pain when walking.
i thought i had this as leg is sore further i walk and has been happening for 6-12 months. I've seen 3 doctors and they said they've tested for pad and blood clot and have swore it's not any of them and not serious. They think it's muscular and have advised physio therapist. Anyone any idea what it could be?
Hi! I've come back to this video. I've been practising the exercises for a few weeks now. My calf tightness has eased a lot. But I feel some sort of cramping down one side of one of my legs. I haven't gotten a diagnosis of PAD. But, can I ask... I walk almost daily for over 15, 20 or even 30 minutes at a time, and over the cause of the day, I cover anywhere from 5 to more than 10km. I do this 5 to 6 times a week. In addition, I climb up and down 3 flights of stairs several times a day, since my flat is on the 3rd floor. By the way, it takes me quite a while to reach a 3 on the pain scale when walking or doing these exercises. But does my leg pain (both at rest and when walking/exercising) indicate that I may still have PAD? Thanks.
It sounds like you're really active which is great. It's difficult for me to answer this, but what you could be experiencing is something completely different. PAD normally has an onset of pain after a certain time at a certain workload that then gradually gets worse until you stop. If you get this pain at different times and workloads, it could be suggesting a musculoskeletal problem. It's probably worth you seeking individual advice from a doctor about this to get a diagnosis.
Ive been experiencing aches burning and cramps in my right calf for years but now its in both, i can only walk 200 steps before the pain sets in, its got dramatically more painful since having caught covid a few weeks ago. I have an appointment with my GP next month beacuse i am convinced its PAD. Im 38 female and its depressing me beacuse i used to walk 10,000 a day now can onky manage 2,000 before im almosy crying with pain and the moment i stop walking the pain goes away. Does this sound like pad to you?
This is a difficult question to answer because the onset of the pain is similar to someone that's experiencing lactic acid in the muscles during intense exercise. The process is similar, so probably the only way to tell the difference is if the onset of the symptoms is gradually getting worse over time rather than better. If you are over the age of 50 and have other health conditions such as high cholesterol/ high blood pressure/ diabetes, or if you are concerned it might be PAD, then it's definitely worth getting checked by your doctor as they can refer you for an ultrasound to investigate further.
Interesting question that extends beyond my knowledge! However, I do know that exercise helps improve the efficiency of the muscles therefore delaying the onset of claudication symptoms.
@@ExerciseForHealththank you for your response, the big challenge here is if you can reduce the clog with just exercising...that one will be a big target to avoid taking blood thinners for example.. :)
I am 20 year old and I have no diabetes and no high bp problem. But i am feeling cold feet and my left leg is more tired then right. I am a university student and walking is my daily routine. I felt the coldness in my 4 days ago no pain but I am fatigued. I have told my doctor and he said that it temporary but I am still worried. Does all of the symptoms I have told always leads to PAD?
No, it doesn't sound like PAD from what you've said as this causes pain that subsides after rest, and you're only 20 so that makes this condition even less likely. If it continues or gets worse, go back to your doctor for further advice.
If you have excess weight, then this will certainly add to the work for the muscles in the lower leg increasing the onset of claudication. But weight loss will come with a balanced diet and regular physical activity throughout the day, and if the claudication kicks in first, then it makes it difficult to sustain any long term activity. So essentially, just move as much as you can when you can to help with both conditions.
It's worth trying anything to see what works. Mini trampets are great and the lower impact may allow you to do the movement for longer before the pain kicks in.
Pls help me i don't smoke,don't take alcohol or even sodas.i cook my own food from the scratch and i have pad.i have worked on my even though i don't have weakness.The problem is that foot is always heavy when i sit or lying down.Also my feet is kind of stiff and cold sometimes what should i do.pls i need your advice
Yes I have p a d I have been walking but for the last 10 days I haven't been walking that much because iam a Painter I went walking last night and it was hard the first lap please help
Hi. I am 30 years old. For past 6 months i have been experiencing severe pain in my Left Leg after walking for 2-3 mins. And the pain subsides after resting for a minute. I have tried to increase my walking time but it has not improved despite many attempts. I don't understand it has never happened with me before.
ive had an aorta bi fem bi pass, one side blocked and infected removed 6months ago.got no fem supply in one leg.waiting for fem fem bi pass. pain levels are silly.walking is so hard its getting v depressing.
Yes, this would be fine. However, check out 3 videos I've done on high blood pressure including a follow along workout below: 1. ua-cam.com/video/vpqX8zJujDY/v-deo.html 2. ua-cam.com/video/OHVdYOggcco/v-deo.html 3. ua-cam.com/video/zZlS_TRdXHM/v-deo.html
Sir ...Iam from India...I don't know English completely, please understand my situation... Starting 50 miters walking I got pain, now I can walk 1 to 2 hours with 20 percentage of pain compared to my starting stage.. Can I reverse my PAD completely, can I run in future days..?
I can't tell you whether you will be able to run, and I'm not sure if you can completely reverse the condition (a doctor will be able to advise you more on this), however, it sounds like the exercise you are doing is helping to manage your symptoms so well done!
Hi if the patient is a senior 78yrs doing unsupervised exercise routine. Should he do these exercises only for the day or try this along with the short at home walk?
This will depend on them and to the degree which the claudication affects his symptoms upon movement. Little and often is better than trying to do a lot in one day, so maybe break it up a bit initially, and see if small steps to progression can be made over the coming weeks in both the walking time and exercises (repetitions).
This advice works! I made a lot of unfortunate lifestyle choices and only realized my walking distance was about one city block before I was hit with very intense pain in my calves. My doctor gave me this same advice. I walked and walked and walked, always up to level 3, rested and started again. It wasn’t easy, but after 1 year, I was up to 6000 steps without stopping (much). In the third year, I built up to 10.000 steps. Now, 5 years later, I can walk indefinitely. Longer hills can still be challenging, but I still push it to the limit.
The goal is to trigger angiogenesis, which is the growth of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature to supply the muscles with good blood around the blockages.
Initially, I was depressed about my situation, but as time passed, I saw that my progress was directly linked to the sensible intensity of my training. In this case it’s truly “no pain, no gain”. You can do it!
Thanks and well done!
I need to grow collateral coronary arteries and veins in my lower extremities but at a much faster rate.
Thanks for info as I just got diagnosed last week and iam worried sick,my future seemed bleeding until I read your message, thank you
Thanks for the info just got diagnosed last week and this information is gold to me,keep well and thank you
I cannot thank you enough for this video...6 weeks of these exercises and walking most days, and I finally did 30 minutes of pain free walking for the first time in 6 years!!
Brilliant, that's awesome, thank you for your comment.
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Can you get on disability when you have this disease?
Will try,thanks for this video
@@stevenmccormick9883 I don’t think so but it doesn’t hurt to try. I’ve had it for 8 years with bypass in the leg and stent in the right which has blocked up for the 4th time. To get disability from what I understand, it has to do with the distance a person can reasonably walk without pain.
i just found out that i may have this disease and i'm genuinely so terrified for my future. i'm 18, have been overweight all my life and have postponed my health and losing weight, eating healthier... everything, all my life. i swear on myself and my dignity, i'm ending this horrible lifestyle i've looped myself into today. i'm exercising daily, and starting a very rough diet soon. there's nothing more scarier than just starting to feel your own person, feeling independent then recognizing how bad you messed up all your life. i'm 254 pounds right now and i am going to change starting today. i'm done with this lifestyle.
i'm sorry for writing this here, and i really appreciate this video, i have hope in my future now.💗
Great decision with the lifestyle changes. You're only 18 so you have so much you can do ahead of you.
Best of luck to you young person. You can do this!
I'm 26 got PAD in 16 now my heart has became weak don't know why this disease came
hows it going?
Don’t feel bad for posting this. Please don’t give up! I was overweight too. The pain in my legs was really bad and I ignored it for years. I am 50 and I had my surgery yesterday. Right on time. Please don’t procrastinate your visit to the doctor to check your veins, eat healthy, excersise
I experienced claudication in my left calf in 2013. The pain was really bad after only walking about 100 meters. My Dr sent me for a ultrasound which showed low blood flow in an artery in my left thigh. He then referred me to a Vascular Surgeon who further checked the blood flow by feeling for a pulse in my groin and an associated pulse in my lower leg. He immediately confirmed that I had a blocked artery. Two days later I spent a day in hospital having a stent placed in the artery. This was done via a wire inserted in my groin. After a couple of hours of recovery I was sent home. The procedure was 100% effective and I haven't had a any claudication related pain since. Whilst the exercise approach is no doubt beneficial I think that it's wise to also get a referral to a Vascular Surgeon as stenting of the effected artery can fix the problem as it has for me for nine years and ongoing.
Agreed. Exercise won't cure this condition, only help you manage it. If it get's really bad then taking the advice of the doctor with potential surgery may be the way forward for some people for their quality of life. Thank you for sharing, and please keep exercising to reduce the risk of further atherosclerosis in the future.
@@ExerciseForHealth Absolutely. I'm 71 and retired now. I do weights at the gym 3times a week, walk 5 days a week at least 6K and play golf on Wednesday. I find exercise really addictive.
I also had a stent placed behind the knee. The stent after 7 years is now blocked and cannot be repaired, referred to surgeon for bypass. But I was also told that exercise as depicted would help defer or at least make the surgery far more successful . Also Blood pressure and weight gain needs to be reduced. Glad I found this site!
I did all the exercises and eventually due to a blocked artery and stent which kept blocking up, had a bypass. So far it’s going on almost 5 years and vascular surgeons in Atlanta area told me that the lifetime of a stent is 5 years. The stent in my other leg has been cleaned out 4 times and I’m going to have a bypass in that leg soon. Stents are just a patch for the inevitable bypass. It’s a battle fighting this disease.
“atherosclerosis”??? Natural process…”PAD or PVD”??? common condition…wow!!!! Finally someone that puts these conditions into perspective…not the case if you’re young but people over certain age eventually go and these are part of aging naturally - some can avoid it (dying of cancer or other reasons). But the heart is the hardest working organ - you can only get so many years out of it. 🙏👍
Good point!
Great video. I have never been diagnosed, but ever since i was young and even in my twenties, i cannot go up a little hill after a minute as i get severe upper leg pain n become breathless. The pain so bad i cannot resume the climb. My heart is good, clean, and i have very low blood pressure approx 90/58. I am now 59yrs old. I lost 57kgs but the problem remains. Walking flat is not a problem, i can walk 7kms, and on a very good day manage a sharp one off incline, but nearly always, i have to stop.
It would be interesting to learn what is causing this pain and get a clinical diagnosis.
@@ExerciseForHealth yes i have wondeted for years. No visible varicose veins either. Only problem is, i am os at moment in my fav mountains. In australia i cannot walk, perhaps pollution from city, but here... i immediately walked kms n then 7kms! Strange. The air in mountains is def better but the uphill problem.as i wrote remains.
Thank you for your thoroghness. Ive been delaying amending my claudication and this inspired me to get my arse moving.
Great, good luck
Thanks for this video!
Walking and climbing stairs for me is a nightmare these days. It is so hard that I have to take support of something every time I climb the stairs and it is really embarrassing for me as a teenager in school. This has happened over the course of 2 years in the pandemic. Before this, I was totally fine and could run up and down stairs easily.
I hope this works for me and I’ll try my best to not give up. Thank you!
You're welcome and good luck!
@@ExerciseForHealth Thank you!!🧡🧡
Do you smoke?
The primary cause of PAD is smoking.
Please, quit if you do.
@@imtiazfaisal210 oh no I don’t
I don’t think I ever will too.. not even once
I have no interest in smoking lmao I don’t find it cool like most teenagers
P.S My legs are A LOT better now:))
The key is to walk. Just WALK! And it’s fine now
After a sedentary lifestyle of 2 years, this had to happen
But now I feel so good I can walk normally.
@@Gunikaa10 Good for you, what excercise did you do?
Thanks for your exercises. At 90, I love them. And they give me a reason to get up and do something for my sedentary life. Plus I recently had a stent placed in my leg to increase blood flow. Thanks from a. Yank.
Oh wow. Thank you, that's amazing and I hope I can be as active as you Sir if I get to be 90! Well done.
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This is the very best video I have watched for the problem of Claudication. Well done indeed. I am on the right track but must walk more. Judith from New Zealand
Thanks Judith
Thank you so much! Great info, very well presented. I was diagnosed with PAD a year ago and this video was just what I needed.
Thank you. I really appreciate comments like this, as I'm motivated more if what I'm producing is really helping people and making a difference. 👍
Dear sir I have pain in my lower limbs..it pains when I put pressure on it...plz help it to know how it feels like pad
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Hi! I would like to know what treatment did doctor suggested to you? It's been a year and my legs still hurting every time I lay down, but I still don't know if I have one (manifesting that I really don't have one), due to financial issues.
I really would like to know so that I can prevent from worsing🙏 I'm still saving some money for check up (I'm just 19 years old, btw)
Thank you so much in advance for your answers 🙏
@@dancewithshine1872 ebay diosin and hesperiden
Thank you so much - Ive been looking for I.C. guidance 👍
Glad it helped!
Thanks
WOW!! Thank you so much for the super thanks.
@@ExerciseForHealth I'm experiencing a burning sensation in my feet, along with lower back and calf pain; I'm just 19 years old. Is it PAD??
have pad and so far nothing in the way of advice from dr trying to resolve this alone thanks for these excurcises
Happy to help
Maybe I'm pushing myself too hard, as I am walking and cycling untill the pain is unbearable and I have to stop. cycling is easier because I can intermittently freewheel, but am I putting pressure on the arteries from sitting on a saddle? I'm using my bike more because things like carrying shopping bring on the pain quicker, so I put the shopping bags on the bike and push it letting the bike take the weight. I am pleased I found your video and will do the exercises you demonstrated when I can't get out.
Seated exercise on the bike will be fine and should feel less painful as the stress through the lower leg muscles is lower than when on your feet like walking.
@@ExerciseForHealth I managed to stop pain without realising it, I decided to change what I was eating and cut out all sugar containing products, along with grains. I'm still getting some minor numbness feeling but the pain side of it has gone, this has happened within two weeks of diet change and yesterday I was able to cycle a mile at a good speed with no pain, just a little fatigue more like normal and slight numbing. I didn't realise how much sugar inflammes arteries until now.
I'm happy I came across Your Video.
Thank You...
You're welcome
This is gold. Thank you so much, this is exactly what I have been searching for.
I'm going to start all these exercises straight away
Glad it has helped
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Thank You so much, very informative, well explained, I have been diagnosed for symptoms of claudication yesterday. Experiencing burning sensation in soles of the feet, thigh muscles. Will start the exercises. Thanks Once again.
You're most welcome
Excellent site. Thank you.
You're welcome
With my pad being quite severe .. I choose to take a bus into town..and spend three hours daily walking round the shops and window shopping.. it's amazing what ground I cover by walking in and out of shops and precincts ..
Plus there's many places in a town to sit down as benches are scattered everywhere ..so all told I do get a fair amount of distance covered, I generally catch a bus back home as it is extremely tiring..
I , however do have severe pain in my legs when Its bed time and my legs have to dangle downwards on the outside of the bed ..as my pain never goes away with rest anymore.
But I'm generally keeping this routine up as long as it's viably possible ..
Sounds like you're doing great, well done
Window shopping is not adequate exercise, as it involves too much stopping and rest. The proper exercise as therapy is continuous walking through the pain - you must endure the pain for this to help. The pain is what alerts the body to start building new pathways for circulation. If you have pain at rest and bedtime, your condition is more advanced and may require more direct intervention. You should consult a doctor on this - do not wait
Thanks so much for this video really well presented can't wait to get started on these exercises hopefully my condition should improve thanks again
You're so welcome!
Thank you
In addition to exercise I believe that after dinner and after taking your medicine if any with water or green tea at night eat some 10 to 15 grapes with water or gt. you would be in a better condition after some time.
bye
joseph from mauritius
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Just came across this video. Excellent presentation; very informative. I'm impressed, and have quickly subscribed to view your other videos. Great work! 👍 You deserve more views and subscribers.
Love this comment. Thank you so much.
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Thanks sooo much!!! Much appreciated!!! ❤
You're welcome
I have a severely arthritic right knee from sports etc growing up. I played basketball 1 hour a day 4 days a week at lunch, gym 3 times a week strength training and martial arts twice a week. I never had an issue until MA class. Calf would burn unbearably during warm ups. Figured it had to do with my knee and running barefoot. I have to wear arch support for flat feet . Would never happen any other time. All of a sudden this Spring I can barely walk a few feet without severe burning and stiffness. Also experiencing pain in foot, coldness, slight pins and needles, bruising by both ankles and legs slightly swelling. Don't ignore these signs and believe it has to do with something else like being overweight etc! I have serious qualification now in everything I do. Even at rest. I am now gaining weight because of this which is making it worse. Thanks for the video
Thanks for sharing your experience, and I hope things improve for you and you can get back to some awesome martial arts training again.
Great video, thank you!
My pleasure!
I love, love LOVE you and your Brit Channel! Thank you sir!
Wow, thank you!
Thank you so much for this...
You're welcome
Good video. Will stop trying to "stretch out" the calf in the future. I also supplement with Propionyl L-Carnitine which has been very helpful when playing tennis at reducing instances of claudication in the foot and calf. I used to have the muscles of one leg get so tight due to reduced oxygen to the muscle that it felt like a railroad spike was being put through my foot. It wasn't a stretching pre-match issue. I've had several small clots in that lower leg and the resulting scar tissue restricts blood flow which at least mimic's claudication. For years, walking was always problematic and wished I'd come across your video back then. It still can cause me pain due to it's continuous action even with PLC supplemented. With tennis, I get a small rest during changeovers which helps the muscle recover. Wish I could say that the physical activity has fixed this problem, it hasn't and I've been active most of my adult life. Will say that despite this issue, my heart calcium score was 0, so assume the activity is at least beneficial for general heart health. PLC by itself is hard to come by (one manufacturer, Biovy) so am going to give GPLC (glycene added) a chance to see if the benefits are the same in case that supply drys up. Am nearly 60 and overweight but active. Thanks again.
You're welcome and thanks for this interesting information you've shared.
God bless your endeavour.... Thanks for sharing 🤓
You're welcome
Thank goodness I found your channel today, I will now start exercising and hope my vascular consultant will be as pleased as I hope to be. I have an exercise bike, will that help? Thanks again
Yes for sure. Take a look at some of these workout videos that I've done too, as some might help you at home: ua-cam.com/play/PLf9i8qFtMBBK1VBEA-IlSw7VrXxrvxHUF.html
Thank you for this informative video
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you, well presented.
You are welcome!
This condition has basically killed my quality of life. I've been treated for diabetes'HBP for over 20 years now. Have taken all the recommended supplements to be had over the last 20 years. Up to 2013 I was walking up to 5 miles 3 times a week,even with the pain of claudication;until I just couldn't walk without the danger of falling and breaking a hip due to balance/gait issues. Started a stationary bike since....
Last year had 2 stents placed on each of my legs,by 3 different doctors in 2 different hospitals/clinics....I've actually gotten worse..I can barely walk 20 steps before my legs spread out as if I were riding a horse,and my gait changes and my legs feel heavier than ever and my shins feels like they are being pressed by a vice grip. Been walking with a cane for 5 years now...When at home have to be constantly grabbing walls/doors furniture as not to lose my balance or trip over my own feet.
Didn't help that last year I had a big toe amputation because of gangrene.
I barely leave my house other than work/groceries...I have to count the steps from my doorway to the parking lot/the trash bin just to make sure I can make it ...Can barely do the bike anymore..Just 5 minutes...stop for 10 or more...do 5 more minutes...The pain my shins/calves/ankles is unberarable..Of course this makes it useless to exercise...Progress is non-existent for whatever I exercise for.
Hoping for a quick and sudden death to escape this hell on earth. I've lost all hope...It's quality not quantity of life. If I believed in God I would pray for a widow maker heart attack.
Gosh, I hope you can find some sort of respite.
I am not a doctor, but I have some recent experience with PAD in my lower legs. In my experience, using a stationary bike is not an effective exercise for the lower leg (calf) muscles. Cycling primarily engages the upper quad muscles to flex the knees. Your lower legs (calf) activate the foot. There is very little foot activation in cycling as most of the force is being applied straight down the leg into the pedals. I use a sit-down - pedals in front - style cycle for warmup, and I experience no lower leg pain while doing it. However, I experience near immediate pain when I start a long walk. Walking primarily engages the lower leg muscles to activate the foot in pushing against the ground and raising your body higher. If you cannot walk or balance, you should find an equivalent exercise that will engage the lower leg by flexing the feet. Performing standing heel raises can do the trick. Also sitting and flexing your feet by alternately pointing and retracting your toes back and forth (ankle movement). The pain in necessary to indicate you are exercising the correct muscles and forcing blood into the appropriate area. The pain alerts the body to start building new peripheral arteries to feed the neglected area.
This is so helpful as an ex phys student! Thank you 😊
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the exercises
My pleasure!
Great advice as I am struggling with walking !
Glad it was helpful!
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🙏 Thanks so much!!! Very informative.
You are so welcome!
Thanks for sharing
You're welcome
Is a stepper machine a helpful device to use? I see steppers and peddle machines and the stepper seems good based on the step exercises we do in the video.
Yes, you can try it and see how your symptoms are.
awesome 👍😎👌. Thanks for sharing
You're welcome
My brain says go for a walk, then my legs tell me to go @#!$% myself🤣😂
Ha ha!! Small steps! :-)
Years of pain? I thought it'll go away. I need to start asap. Thanks for the comments!!!
You're welcome
A few years ago I had to quit hiking once P.A.D fully developed mostly in my right leg. I now use paved walking paths that have very little to no inclines. I found it quite surprising that swimming would not be beneficial. Could you please tell me weather or not bicycling would be beneficial for P.A.D
I mention that swimming can be a higher risk if you also have other associated heart conditions. It will probably be easier to swim for PAD because the stress on the lower leg muscles is very small, hence why you will get more benefit from other forms of exercise. Cycling will definitely be a good one!
@@ExerciseForHealth *Thank you* very much for your reply. I very much appreciate your most helpful and informative channel.
Really an excellent lecture.
Glad you liked it.
Thank you so much for this video, so informative. I feel I have all the symptoms of this condition but have been told by a doctor that it can’t be PAD or intermittent claudication because I’m not a smoker, what investigations should be done to diagnose this. I have liked and subscribed to your channel. Thanks again 😊
Hey thanks. I'm not medically trained so couldn't tell you what investigations should be taken, although I can prescribe exercise to those that have a diagnosed condition. I don't think PAD is purely smoker related though, so it's worth getting a second opinion.
@@ExerciseForHealth thank you, I will. I should have did that sooner.
Thanks , Got all the symptoms , I take a nitro before hiking, yep 45 lbs. backpack ,bad heart and at 9000' . My rest period is about 8mins,walk 100' and stop and repeat. But once on level ground not too bad. At 63 and 40lbs over weight,smoker, and 3 stents in the heart I will not go easy into the night. I'm using and Niacin burn 2x week to help rid the cholesterol that is floating around do not know if it will remove the plackets.of fat in the veins.So far it's slow going but I got the time now.
Good luck and just do what you can when you can to help! 👍
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Thanks sir this exercise work for me
Glad to hear that
This is such a Catch-22 for me though. The walking (even just standing still up for a few minutes) causes, usually, unbearable pain in my calf and/or leg that I HAVE TO stop walking or standing. I cannot walk very far before this pain sets in. In the evenings my calves/ankles are on fire from “overuse” I’m assuming. Tingling feet. I want to take walks now so badly but can’t. I feel like I’m screwed.
Sorry to hear this. Are you sure it's PVD causing all your symptoms (feet tingling sounds neurological)? I hope that your health care team/ doctor can provide you with some advice to help you lead a better quality of life.
@@ExerciseForHealth Thank you so much. I’m headed home in two weeks (I’ve been out of state for awhile, trying to care for my mother who was ill). When I get back, I will look into this with the health care team. I’ve already set up an appoint to see them. I do have some neurological issues, as you mentioned. I’m also 50-60 lbs overweight. I’ve lost 8-9 lbs since being here so, hopefully, I’m headed in the right direction. Thank you again for the nice response.
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@@SirJabalot It could be spinal stenosis.
Me too. 😢
What about cycling? Is a spinning bike as good as walking? Or a row machine?
Thanks for the video ❤
You'll probably find you can exercise for longer on a rowing machine or exercise bike before the claudication kicks in compared to walking, so yes do this if you can!
Thank❤️you
Hello fade up going to doctors got all the scans am old girl 80 and counting on patch allso on steroids injections the left leg all the way down to ankle is sometimes unbearable have to keep going , put a brave face on god only knows pg there will be no pain in heaven will just have to get on my bike thankks for video
Thank you and I wish you all the best and I hope I get to be 80 years young!
Awesome information.
Thank you
Awesome video
Thank you
Listen to the advice in this video, this can save your legs even your life. A low fat diet, salt, sugar along with exercise should be taken serious. Good luck if you decide to take the medical route. Surgery and Stents that just get blocked again and again, stents and more stents.
Thank you and good advice.
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Thanks champion
Welcome!
Very informative.God bless you
So nice of you, thank you
@@ExerciseForHealth I found it very very effective.thanxalot
i can walk for 385 steps before lactic acid builds up in my left buttock & hip forcing me to stop , after i rest the distance i can walk gets less & less until i can manage only 40 steps before resting , my right ankle is swollen compared to my left , i was diagnosed with a chronic occlusion of the right coronary artery in 2006 but they said as i am still fairly fit they will leave it alone , i also had my right Carotid artery cleaned around the same time i am wondering now if i have PAD ,
Thank you for sharing. Obviously Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) can be linked as the mechanisms are very similar, so it's possible. Definitely worth getting checked by a qualified doctor.
Thanks for the exercise video. Will this exercise help if the Angioplasty procedure could not remove the blockage?
Exercise cannot reverse the atherosclerosis process, but it can help slow down further progression of it, whilst helping you gain other benefits for a better quality of life.
@@ExerciseForHealth Ok, Thanks for your reply. We were researching for other options instead of having a leg vein bypass.
@@neseab1 check doctor Berg, mendel on UA-cam
Look at Avinger on here. You may have options!
Whats the best way to diagnose these sorts of arterial disease? My arteries hurt ive had ECG, bike test, holter test everything "fine" besides minor arrythmia.
But i am certain there is something wrong with my arteries, they are often painful to touch and ive had systemic inflammation for years and huge infections in my leg.
Im young but lived an unhealthy and idle lifestyle, but now im making changes. What do you suggest? Im thinking about requesting a calcium score test, but how do i find out if i have artery or micro artery problems?
You need to see a doctor to find the best way forward for you.
1 was told by a vascular Surgeon about 4 months ago i had 20 percent blockage in my left ankle. he told me to walk my treadmill as long as possible with in a 40 min period. at first i could only do 5 to ten mins due to shin and calf pain before resting a few mins in between i now go an hour straight .still getting calf pain in the affected leg.i have stop often to re stretch the muscle before continuing ..which i see now is not good.is there an advantage to 60 min a posed to the suggested 40 ? i do this every day
I think it's best to go to your toleration levels and take breaks when required. It's great if you can do 60 minutes though, that's brilliant.
I think I got this from bad eating and I’m 21, thankfully my legs not in pain after I walk just a little achie and maybe little cramps under my feet(right side mainly) but if I was on my feet for a while at the end of the day it aches so you think I can exercise normally because I don’t think it ever reaches a level 3 ??and I started noticing it recently when working but at first I just thought it was a normal leg aches after working but it stayed like this for a while and I work in a tractor all day sitting , Only thing really bothersome is I got tingling and pins feeling i get in my feet and hand now, not alot but sometimes, Is that normal for pad patients because if the less blood flow? I Feel it mainly in my feet and leg. I also started working in a tractor and those feelings are around where I grip the steering wheel and the other control but mainly in in my feet toes and leg so not sure if it’s pad related on my hands because the years before it didn’t do that.. And also that cold feeling around my leg not all the time but sometimes it happens. I first noticed it in December maybe when I was in bed and it felt like that with toe tingling. And when I would go outside and start walking I would get that cold feeling around one leg and I could feel it moving around my legs and it stops , I wanna note my left leg does look a little bigger than my right also like more fat on it, idk if that’s swelling or something else. I Have to wait for my checkup which is aug 12, best I can do is eat healthy and exercise through it. Sorry I wrote this fast. I wanna add My last checkup last year I was almost pre diabetic, got better then they told me to check back in 6 months which was this January and since then I wasn’t eating good which makes me believe this PAD thing is starting to happen to me. Thanks !!
I would be surprised if your symptoms relate to PAD because of your age unless your very unlucky. The pins and needles feeling point towards a nerve impingement which is more likely if you're sat down a lot in a tractor. Speak to your doctor about your symptoms though to be checked out for all possibilities, they will know best!
I get extreme pain when snowboarding, but only in my feet (not calves), it feels like lactic acid when you work out, but more intense. I have to stop, sit down, and take off my boots. After about 1-2 hours it goes away and I feel pretty good. I've had this since I was 16 and it made me stop snowboarding. I also get it when hiking. Do you think this be PAD, given I had it since 16?
It doesn't sound like it, but best to get it checked by your doctor
I carry a heavy shopping bag, but once I get settled in, I'm alright on level ground. When I start off, I have to sit on garden walls for a short time.
It's good to manage it however you can and stay as active as you can within your limitations. Well done!
Hey 👋 thanks for the video , i have recently been diagnosed and been suffering a couple of years I love the gym 🏋️♂️ and I have been avoiding leg days. Do you think i should continue resistance training on legs or leave it out
Still exercise the legs if you can because that will help with the blood flow. You may find that your legs "burn out" faster with this condition so you can't do as much, but it will help.
@@ExerciseForHealth thank you so much , I been really scared and my doctors aren't the greatest to speak to.
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I’ve been recently diagnosed with PAD. I currently can only do about 100 yards on flat without having to stop. (Only 50) . Im awaiting follow up appointments.. will I require operations?
This is a question for your doctor. I obviously can't answer this!
This is excellent. I have been living with PAD for 20 years and have had to
Make my own exercise programes up . Cardio rehab helped me 3 times but fir PAD there has been nothing to help - how can I help you get this circulated through the NHS ?
I've seen a number of people in the cardiac rehab programmes I work in that are suffering with PAD and they sometimes find it difficult to keep up with the group, and have to be offered alternative exercises. I think that this condition warrants a programme by itself. Any sharing of this video would be great, as the more people it can help, the better! Thank you in advance 😊
New subscriber here. Great video! Can I ask... You've discouraged static stretching. What about dynamic stretching before starting exercises or long walks? And is backward walking of any use in this situation (PAD)? Thanks
Great, thanks for the subscription! Yes dynamic stretching should be OK as this will aid with blood supply and activate the muscles. It's definitely worth experimenting with it to see if it makes a difference. The "no static stretching" during the activity point was made in this video as it can relax the muscle creating an increased oxygen demand to fire it up again and increasing the onset of pain even quicker when you resume your activity again. Backward walking will initiate an eccentric (lengthening) contraction of the calf muscles rather than a concentric (shortening) contraction when you walk forwards. Therefore the muscles will still be working and require oxygen, but again, try experimenting with this and I would be interested to hear how you get on and whether it makes a difference to your symptoms. 👍
@@ExerciseForHealth I very much appreciate your quick - and detailed! - response. Thanks so much. I asked about walking backwards because I have tight calf muscles, and I hope this will help loosen them up. Thanks again.
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My legs are so heavy it is hard to stand over a year no, Sydney nsw , thanks 🙏
You're so welcome!
@@ExerciseForHealth does pad cause heavy legs so heavy I find it hard to walk 🌺
@@annemytka6507same question
Hi im suffering kind of symtoms since an year and i cant walk for half a KM now. Leg muscles stuffed and feeling numbness lower part of leg. Is there any medication as well along with the excercise? Plz help me
Unfortunately I'm not a doctor and cannot speak about medications. Please consult your doctor for this information.
Should you wear weights on ankles when you walk? It starts to hurt so bad immediately when I play tennis but I just stop and re start and try to play, is that OK to do?
Having weights around your ankles will make the legs work harder therefore inducing claudication symptoms quicker, so I personally wouldn't advise this.
Thanks @@ExerciseForHealth
Hi...I have been experiencing pain in my buttock and thigh on the left side while walking (for over three years)...the pain subsides when I stop walking, so can't walk beyond 2-3minutes without pain...the neurologist/neuro surgeon opine that this is due to problem in L4-L5 area...your explanation seems to match my condition though i do not know the specialist medical professional who can officially either confirm my condition or otherwise...so would like your advise/recommendation as to the specialist doctor i should consult to get proper advise and treatment to get relief from pain and be able to walk for about 30 minutes...in the meantime, will the exercises demonstrated in this video be helpful??....thank you so much... namaste from Bangalore, India. 🙏🙏
Hi. It sounds like you have Sciatica symptoms with the pain you mentioned following an impinged nerve which could be aggravated by the walking movement, but it could be vascular in nature like in this video. I'm no medical practitioner so couldn't diagnose you, but it might be worth seeing a physio/ physical therapist if you think it's nerve impingement. If you can get a scan this will obviously help diagnose this. If you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, or have high cholesterol and you're over 60 and the pain is more excrutiating if the leg muscles have to work more (like walking up hill is worse than walking on a flat), then it's worth speaking with a doctor to get their opinion to see if it is some form of claudication. I hope this helps!
@@ExerciseForHealth thanks
Hi , there are 2 things you need to notice , get tested for both ( l4-L5 ) using an MRI and also reach out yo vascular specialist. Doctors might be under assumption that sciatica is the issue , but it could also be PAD issue , you might also have both sciatica and PAD . One possible symptoms is that one of your leg will be cold
Many people with PVD are elderly (like me) and also suffer with knee pain. Most of these exercises stress the knees. Any suggestions?
The only one that places more stress on the muscles around the knees is the split squat (last exercise). You can modify this by limiting the amount of movement or using a support for some of your bodyweight. The others should be OK as the knees aren't bending very much as more movement is placed through the ankle. The sit to stand can be done from a higher starting position if desired.
Are there any contraindications involving Vascular Intermittent Claudication exercise, when, also, one has Neurogenic Intermittent Claudication? Thanks.
This is a condition I have not come across before so would need to research it before offering any advice.
I , a 16 year old premed, spend majority of my time sitting or lying on the bed studying for more than 16 hours a day.. and i have a very sedentary lifestyle atleast for the past few months.. as i stopped excercising completely.. and now when i started wanting to walk ...i get this pain in my lower legs... it's very intimidating and worsens when i stand up or walk... I don't know what I'm supposed to be doing...is it claudication.. ?? Is it PAD??
If you're only 16 years old, it's very unlikely. If you're sedentary, it's more likely to be stiff lower leg muscles that have reduced capacity for use. If you walk gently for at least 10 minutes, and the pain eases with time, it's most likely to be a musculoskeletal issue. If you are concerned though, you should seek advice form a medical professional.
@@ExerciseForHealth thanks.. i ain't having that pain...turns out i tried doing frog jumping a day before..so that's what caused that pain..
And I'm trying to be a bit more active
@@scienceislove2014 Ha ha, OK that makes sense.
Would a revitive machine help?
Maybe. I've seen them advertised and don't know much about them other than it's supposed to improve circulation. I'm sure it will help while you're sat down, but not sure if this will increase your threshold for pain when walking.
Why didn't I find you earlier
Now you're here! Welcome.
i thought i had this as leg is sore further i walk and has been happening for 6-12 months. I've seen 3 doctors and they said they've tested for pad and blood clot and have swore it's not any of them and not serious. They think it's muscular and have advised physio therapist. Anyone any idea what it could be?
Best to get it checked by a health professional
Hi! I've come back to this video. I've been practising the exercises for a few weeks now. My calf tightness has eased a lot. But I feel some sort of cramping down one side of one of my legs. I haven't gotten a diagnosis of PAD. But, can I ask... I walk almost daily for over 15, 20 or even 30 minutes at a time, and over the cause of the day, I cover anywhere from 5 to more than 10km. I do this 5 to 6 times a week. In addition, I climb up and down 3 flights of stairs several times a day, since my flat is on the 3rd floor. By the way, it takes me quite a while to reach a 3 on the pain scale when walking or doing these exercises. But does my leg pain (both at rest and when walking/exercising) indicate that I may still have PAD? Thanks.
It sounds like you're really active which is great. It's difficult for me to answer this, but what you could be experiencing is something completely different. PAD normally has an onset of pain after a certain time at a certain workload that then gradually gets worse until you stop. If you get this pain at different times and workloads, it could be suggesting a musculoskeletal problem. It's probably worth you seeking individual advice from a doctor about this to get a diagnosis.
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Ive been experiencing aches burning and cramps in my right calf for years but now its in both, i can only walk 200 steps before the pain sets in, its got dramatically more painful since having caught covid a few weeks ago.
I have an appointment with my GP next month beacuse i am convinced its PAD.
Im 38 female and its depressing me beacuse i used to walk 10,000 a day now can onky manage 2,000 before im almosy crying with pain and the moment i stop walking the pain goes away.
Does this sound like pad to you?
It might be but you're very young for it. Good that you're visiting your doctor, so see what they recommend
I have one question. Can this be caused by wearing something that tights the calve and you still using it?
Not that I'm aware of. PAD is normally caused by lifestyle factors (poor diet, smoking, sedentary behaviour etc).
how can I identify it is intermittent claudication or the natural soreness in muscle while being walking up in a hill?
This is a difficult question to answer because the onset of the pain is similar to someone that's experiencing lactic acid in the muscles during intense exercise. The process is similar, so probably the only way to tell the difference is if the onset of the symptoms is gradually getting worse over time rather than better. If you are over the age of 50 and have other health conditions such as high cholesterol/ high blood pressure/ diabetes, or if you are concerned it might be PAD, then it's definitely worth getting checked by your doctor as they can refer you for an ultrasound to investigate further.
@@ExerciseForHealth Alright! Thank you
i have a question, the improvements are coming from the collateral blood irrigation or the clog is dissolving?…or both?
Interesting question that extends beyond my knowledge! However, I do know that exercise helps improve the efficiency of the muscles therefore delaying the onset of claudication symptoms.
@@ExerciseForHealththank you for your response, the big challenge here is if you can reduce the clog with just exercising...that one will be a big target to avoid taking blood thinners for example.. :)
I am 20 year old and I have no diabetes and no high bp problem. But i am feeling cold feet and my left leg is more tired then right. I am a university student and walking is my daily routine. I felt the coldness in my 4 days ago no pain but I am fatigued. I have told my doctor and he said that it temporary but I am still worried. Does all of the symptoms I have told always leads to PAD?
No, it doesn't sound like PAD from what you've said as this causes pain that subsides after rest, and you're only 20 so that makes this condition even less likely. If it continues or gets worse, go back to your doctor for further advice.
@@ExerciseForHealth btw i felt the symptoms of cold feet very suddenly, is it possible that I am anemic?
Thank You for reply doctor.
Thanks! :)
You're welcome!
All good for the exercises but how about weight loss? Shldnt that come first?
If you have excess weight, then this will certainly add to the work for the muscles in the lower leg increasing the onset of claudication. But weight loss will come with a balanced diet and regular physical activity throughout the day, and if the claudication kicks in first, then it makes it difficult to sustain any long term activity. So essentially, just move as much as you can when you can to help with both conditions.
I recently got a mini tramp. It creates same pain process without having to suffer our hot Arizona sun. What do you think?
It's worth trying anything to see what works. Mini trampets are great and the lower impact may allow you to do the movement for longer before the pain kicks in.
Bob Drexler, how do you like the mini trampoline. How do you pick a good one if your heavy? Thanks
This is a nightmare. What if you have CMT and PAD?
I guess it depends on how the conditions affect you, so do what you can within your limitations.
Pls help me i don't smoke,don't take alcohol or even sodas.i cook my own food from the scratch and i have pad.i have worked on my even though i don't have weakness.The problem is that foot is always heavy when i sit or lying down.Also my feet is kind of stiff and cold sometimes what should i do.pls i need your advice
OK, you need to speak to your doctor. I cannot help as I don't know you.
I have bone to bone knees and can only walk in the pool. I'm 72. The pool is heated.
Hydrotherapy can be great for so many conditions!
I had ileo-femoral bypass surgery, has anyone else done it?
Interesting.
Yes I have p a d I have been walking but for the last 10 days I haven't been walking that much because iam a Painter
I went walking last night and it was hard the first lap please help
Please speak with your doctor for individual advice for you, but hopefully the tips and exercises in this video might help you.
I can not walk continuesly more then 5 minute, while i take rest for 1 or 2 minutes then i can walk 5 minutes again.
Is it PVD??
I obviously can't answer this question, please speak with your doctor
Hi. I am 30 years old. For past 6 months i have been experiencing severe pain in my Left Leg after walking for 2-3 mins. And the pain subsides after resting for a minute. I have tried to increase my walking time but it has not improved despite many attempts. I don't understand it has never happened with me before.
Check with your doctor to see if it is this condition or something else.
ive had an aorta bi fem bi pass, one side blocked and infected removed 6months ago.got no fem supply in one leg.waiting for fem fem bi pass. pain levels are silly.walking is so hard its getting v depressing.
Soory to hear this. Hope your quality of life improves
@@ExerciseForHealth thanks
Are these exercises safe for someone who does not have PAD but has high blood pressure?
Yes, this would be fine. However, check out 3 videos I've done on high blood pressure including a follow along workout below:
1. ua-cam.com/video/vpqX8zJujDY/v-deo.html
2. ua-cam.com/video/OHVdYOggcco/v-deo.html
3. ua-cam.com/video/zZlS_TRdXHM/v-deo.html
@@ExerciseForHealth Thank you.
I don't feel pain when walking but as soo as i start jogging pain starts
That's when it's getting more intense, so muscles demand more oxygen.
Do you do these exercises so you don't have the ballooning done or after having the ballooning done ,I'm really confused 🤫
You can use them to manage the condition. This can be before or after any stent type treatment.
Sir ...Iam from India...I don't know English completely, please understand my situation...
Starting 50 miters walking I got pain, now I can walk 1 to 2 hours with 20 percentage of pain compared to my starting stage..
Can I reverse my PAD completely, can I run in future days..?
I can't tell you whether you will be able to run, and I'm not sure if you can completely reverse the condition (a doctor will be able to advise you more on this), however, it sounds like the exercise you are doing is helping to manage your symptoms so well done!
@@ExerciseForHealth ok.thank you sir....
Hi if the patient is a senior 78yrs doing unsupervised exercise routine. Should he do these exercises only for the day or try this along with the short at home walk?
This will depend on them and to the degree which the claudication affects his symptoms upon movement. Little and often is better than trying to do a lot in one day, so maybe break it up a bit initially, and see if small steps to progression can be made over the coming weeks in both the walking time and exercises (repetitions).
Nice 👍🩺
Thanks
I think i have PAD due to bad habits and im only 28 years
My feet is always cold and pale
Im scared
Speak with your doctor if you have concerns