From recent research has shown that the Netherlands is a leader in the treatment of Claudication Intermittens, or etalage legs. Both nationally and internationally, it is advised not to operate, but to first undergo six months of specialised walking therapy with the physiotherapist. The physiotherapists at FriskFysio also specialise in treating etalage legs. Wondering what the condition entails and what we can do for you? We will tell you in this blog.
In 2017, out of 55,000 cases of intermittent claudication, as many as 87% were treated primarily by the physiotherapist. Of these, 83% of patients had still not undergone surgery or undergone catheterisation after 5 years. With the right approach, surgeries can actually be completely avoided in most cases as a result. With this, specialised physiotherapy proves highly effective!
What is Claudication Intermittens?
Claudication Intermittens is a vascular disease in which the arteries in the legs calcify and become narrowed. This narrowing is a natural ageing process that starts as early as the age of 20. However, there are a number of factors that accelerate arterial narrowing, including: smoking, poor diet, obesity, hereditary predisposition, diabetes mellitus and insufficient exercise.
The narrowing in the veins allows too little oxygen-rich blood to flow through the legs, resulting in pain, cramping and sometimes a numb feeling in your leg. The symptoms can occur in your foot, calf, thigh or buttock. The pain occurs while walking and disappears only with rest. It sometimes feels like you want to stop at every shop window to find that pain-free rest for a while. This is why Claudicatio Intermittens is also known as 'shop-window legs'.
Physiotherapy treatment for etalage legs
If you turn to one of our physiotherapists for help, you can expect a comprehensive programme. During an initial intake session, you will first discuss your symptoms and limitations with your physiotherapist. There will also be an initial walking test to determine your maximum walking distance. During your programme, we will repeat this test several times to measure your progress. Based on the intake interview and your test results, you will receive a personal training schedule. Together with the physiotherapist you will start training. Sometimes you will also train together with other Claudication patients.
Supervised gait therapy is one of the most important components of the training schedule. Other factors during the programme may include:
- Cycling
- Strength training for legs
- Sports and games
- Lifestyle counselling
All these factors and activities contribute to boosting blood flow in your legs and the health of your veins, with the main goal of reducing your symptoms. After treatments, you will be able to walk longer distances again and your quality of life will be much better.
If you want the course to be reimbursed from your (basic) insurance, you must have a referral from your GP or vascular surgeon.
Would you like more information or to make an appointment?
If you would like more information about etalage legs and the treatment pathway we offer, please contact FriskFysio at 085-5000333 or at info@friskfysio.nl. You can also visit the contact form fill it in on our website and we will contact you as soon as possible.
