Expert: Brandon Briggs, MS - 11/16/2008

Question
Hi Brandon,

I have been walking daily for about a month. i do about 1.5 miles a day-which takes approximatley 20-30 mins. The problem is, that my left calf always hurts very badly, when i walk and i have to stop for a moment every 5 mins to relax it. It almost feels as if my muscles will rip in my calf. I have been advised it may be 'claudation' as i smoke and the nicotine may be causing blockage in my leg arteries-BUT i have cut down smoking considerably and still have the same problem. Please help if you can

Thanks

Sam

Answer
Sam,

It sounds like it could be claudication. Even though you have cut down on your smoking the "damage" is still there. Smoking can cause restriction in the vessels and those who quit smoking can experience complications from that for a while. Just cutting down is not enough. My advise is to work at quitting completely. As for the pain when walking make sure you are warming up properly, that includes stretching. Also, if you can confirm that it is claudication you want to try and walk as long as possible before stopping for a break. That will allow you to increase the distance or time before the pain sets in. I do recommend that you talk with your physician if you haven't all ready.

In good health,

Brandon