Leg weakness, fatigue, or cramping during walking can sometimes be related to reduced blood flow caused by peripheral artery disease. Symptoms may be mistaken for arthritis, muscle fatigue, or normal aging.

One possible symptom is claudication, which may involve pain or cramping in the calves or legs during activity that improves with rest. Some people may instead experience heaviness, fatigue, or reduced walking ability.

What may help:

• Ask a healthcare professional whether testing for circulation problems, such as an ankle-brachial index test, is appropriate.
• Structured or supervised walking programs may help improve walking ability for some people with PAD.
• Avoid smoking and work with a healthcare professional to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and other cardiovascular risk factors.
• Medication or other treatments may be recommended depending on the severity of the condition.

PAD can be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular complications, so persistent symptoms affecting circulation should be medically evaluated.

Medication effects and nerve-related problems can also affect leg strength, sometimes without obvious symptoms at first.

3. Medication Side Effects

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