Pseudoclaudication vs. claudication: What's the difference?

I have severe calf pain when I walk even a short distance. I thought this was a symptom of claudication. But my doctor tells me I have something called pseudoclaudication. What's the difference?

- Jack / Maryland

Mayo Clinic neurologist Jerry Swanson, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

Pseudoclaudication and claudication cause similar symptoms — such as leg pain — but for different reasons. Pseudoclaudication is due to narrowing of the lumbar spinal canal (spinal stenosis). This puts pressure on (compresses) the spinal root nerves, which control movement and sensation in the legs. Claudication, on the other hand, is a circulation problem that results in decreased blood flow to the arteries that supply blood to muscles in the legs.

Pseudoclaudication typically causes pain and discomfort in the buttocks, legs and feet with walking or prolonged standing. You may also experience numbness and weakness in your legs. Leg pain typically is relieved by sitting or bending forward at the waist, which reduces nerve pressure from lumbar spinal stenosis. Treatment of pseudoclaudication is directed at the underlying cause of spinal stenosis. Symptoms of claudication from insufficient blood supply are relieved soon after you stop walking.