PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What condition is claudication associated with?

1. Diabetic neuropathy

2. Muscle strain

3. Peripheral vascular occlusion

4. Stress fractures

The correct answer is: Peripheral vascular occlusion

Claudication is characterized by muscle pain or cramping that occurs during physical activity, such as walking, and typically resolves with rest. This condition is most commonly associated with peripheral vascular occlusion, which refers to the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels that supply blood to the legs. When blood flow is restricted due to conditions such as atherosclerosis, the muscles do not receive enough oxygen during exertion, leading to pain and discomfort. In contrast, diabetic neuropathy involves nerve damage due to high blood sugar levels, leading to symptoms like numbness and tingling rather than claudication. Muscle strain relates to injuries in muscles or tendons caused by overuse or force, and it generally presents as localized pain rather than the specific intermittent pain pattern of claudication. Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, leading to localized pain but not the exertional pain pattern seen with claudication. Therefore, the association of claudication with peripheral vascular occlusion is due to inadequate blood flow, resulting in muscle ischemia during activities that increase metabolic demand.