Conditions That Look Similar
Telling the Difference from Vascular Claudication
Similar Symptoms
Conditions that block blood flow to the legs (such as peripheral artery disease) can also cause leg pain while walking that improves with rest.
This is called vascular claudication.
How to Tell Them Apart
| Feature | Neurogenic (Spinal Stenosis) | Vascular |
|---|---|---|
| How you rest | Relief comes from leaning forward | Relief comes from simply standing still |
| Bicycling | Usually no problem | Can still cause pain |
| Hills | Downhill is harder | Uphill is harder |
| Cold feet | Not typically related | Feet are often cold |
| Foot pulses | Normal | Weak or absent |
Both Can Coexist
In older adults, spinal stenosis and vascular problems can exist together.
If a vascular problem is suspected, initial tests such as an ABI (ankle-brachial index) or CAVI (cardio-ankle vascular index) may be performed in the clinic. The ABI checks whether blood flow to your legs is reduced. The CAVI measures how stiff your blood vessels have become -- essentially, your "vascular age." Both tests simply involve wrapping blood pressure cuffs around your arms and legs and sitting still for a few minutes -- no more uncomfortable than a regular blood pressure check.
If these tests suggest a vascular issue, a referral to a vascular specialist or cardiologist may be recommended.