Leg Cramping When Walking (Claudication) in Miami
Predictable cramping, aching, or fatigue in the calves, thighs, or buttocks after walking a certain distance — that eases within a few minutes of rest — is called intermittent claudication. It is the classic symptom of peripheral artery disease (PAD): narrowed leg arteries that cannot supply enough blood to working muscles.
Common symptoms
- Cramping in the calf, thigh, or buttock after walking a predictable distance
- Pain that eases within a few minutes of standing still
- Coldness or numbness in one foot compared with the other
- Reduced hair growth, shiny skin, or slow-healing scrapes on the lower leg
- Pain in the foot at rest, especially at night (advanced PAD — see a doctor promptly)
Why it matters
PAD affects roughly 1 in 20 adults over 50 and is significantly more common in people with diabetes, kidney disease, or a history of smoking. Left untreated it limits mobility and, in advanced cases, threatens the limb.
PAD is also a strong signal for coronary artery disease. Evaluating it is a chance to catch and manage heart risk at the same time.
How we treat it
Ankle-brachial index (ABI) and vascular ultrasound
A simple, non-invasive test confirms whether artery narrowing is behind your symptoms.
Structured exercise, medical therapy, and risk-factor optimization
First-line care that improves walking distance and lowers overall cardiovascular risk.
Angioplasty, atherectomy, and stenting
Catheter-based procedures that reopen narrowed arteries when symptoms limit daily life or are not improving with medical therapy.
Frequently asked
Hospital Affiliations
Where Dr. Martinez-Clark Practices
Dr. Martinez-Clark holds active staff affiliations at the following Miami-area hospitals, providing continuity of care from the office to the bedside.
Mercy Hospital
Part of HCA Florida Healthcare
Miami, FL
Affiliated cardiologist providing inpatient cardiovascular and vascular care.
Visit hospital websiteRequest a cardiology appointment in Miami
Speak with our care coordinators or request a visit at one of our two Miami-Dade locations — Kendall and North Miami Beach. Most major insurance plans accepted.