Examination of A 60-Year-Old Man With Intermittent Claudication course for GPs

This session uses a video clip to demonstrate how to carry out a focused, problem-based physical examination on a patient presenting with acute intermittent claudication in primary care.

This session was reviewed by Khyati Bakhai and last updated in September 2018.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Use an appropriate examination to assess a patient presenting with intermittent claudication
• Demonstrate focused examination of the peripheral vascular system
• Explain to the patient the need to examine certain parts of the body such as the abdomen, and check BP

Intermittent claudication is the most common manifestation of peripheral artery disease. It is in itself a relatively benign symptom, with only about 2% of claudicants going on to require a major amputation. However, it is a marker of considerably increased future cardiovascular risk.