Ischemic Rest Pain

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Westlake, OH

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Ischemic rest pain is a condition that occurs as a result of reduced blood flow to the tissues, particularly in the lower extremities. It is commonly associated with peripheral vascular disease (PVD), characterized by the narrowing or blockage of arteries that supply blood to the legs and feet.

When the arteries become narrowed or occluded, the amount of blood reaching the muscles and tissues decreases significantly. This inadequate blood flow can lead to tissue damage and result in various symptoms, with one of the most notable being ischemic rest pain.

Ischemic rest pain typically manifests as a severe, burning pain in the legs or feet that worsens during periods of inactivity or when lying down. Patients may experience relief from the pain by dangling their legs over the edge of the bed or sitting up. This pain occurs because the affected muscles and tissues are not receiving enough oxygen and nutrients to function properly.

It is crucial to seek professional medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of ischemic rest pain. To schedule a consultation with board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. David Naar at our Westlake office, please call Premier Vein Clinic at (440) 641-0433 or use our online form to send an inquiry. We are here to assist you and provide the care you need to restore proper blood flow and improve your quality of life.

About Ischemic Rest Pain

The vascular system transports blood around the body. Arteries transport oxygenated blood from the heart, while veins transport deoxygenated blood back to the heart. Peripheral vascularl disease is a serious condition of the vascular system that can cause many problems, including ischemic rest pain. The symptoms of ischemic rest pain can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Throbbing Pain
  • Burning Pain
  • Limb Numbness
  • Limb Weakness
  • Skin Discoloration
  • Pain in the Ball of the Foot

These distressing symptoms can greatly impact an individual’s quality of life, making even simple activities challenging and painful.

What Causes Ischemic Rest Pain?

Ischemic rest pain is strongly linked to PVD, which is split into two distinct conditions: (1)

  • Peripheral Artery Disease – Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that affects the blood vessels outside of the heart and brain, particularly those in the legs. PAD is often caused by atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque within the arteries that restricts blood flow. Factors such as smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of developing peripheral artery disease. 
  • Venous Disease – Venous disease encompasses a range of conditions that affect the veins in our body. These conditions can have a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. From varicose veins to deep vein thrombosis, spider veins to chronic venous insufficiency, venous ulcers to venous reflux, each condition presents its own set of challenges and symptoms.

What Happens if I Don’t Seek Treatment?

If left untreated, the cause of ischemic rest pain can progress and lead to more serious complications such as foot ulcers, non-healing wounds, and even gangrene. In severe cases, it can ultimately result in limb loss. (2)

At Premier Vein Clinic, Dr. Naar and his highly skilled team specialize in diagnosing and treating the consequences of vascular disease, including ischemic rest pain. Through a comprehensive evaluation, including a thorough medical history, physical examination, and advanced imaging techniques, Dr. Naar can determine the underlying cause of the reduced blood flow and develop an individualized treatment plan.

How is Ischemic Rest Pain Managed?

The primary goal of treating ischemic rest pain is to restore proper blood circulation to the affected area. This can be achieved through a combination of medical interventions, lifestyle modifications, and surgical procedures.

Medications

Certain medications may be prescribed to manage the symptoms of ischemic rest pain. These can include vasodilators, which help widen blood vessels and improve blood flow, as well as antiplatelet agents to prevent blood clots from forming.

Lifestyle Changes

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial in managing ischemic rest pain. This can involve quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and following a balanced diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can play a vital role in alleviating ischemic rest pain. It may include exercises aimed at improving muscle strength, flexibility, and blood circulation. Additionally, techniques such as massage and hydrotherapy may provide symptomatic relief.

Surgery

In cases where conservative measures have proven ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures such as angioplasty and stenting can be performed to open up narrowed or blocked arteries, restoring blood flow to the affected area.

Angioplasty & Stenting

  • Angioplasty – Angioplasty is a medical procedure that aims to restore proper blood flow in narrowed or blocked blood vessels. It is a minimally invasive technique that can be performed in various parts of the body, depending on the specific condition being treated.
  • Stenting – A stent is a medical device used in the treatment of various cardiovascular conditions, particularly coronary artery disease. It is an expandable mesh tube that is inserted into a blocked or narrowed blood vessel to restore normal blood flow.

Personal Consultation with Dr. Naar

During your one-on-one consultation, Dr. Naar will conduct a detailed examination of your condition, focusing on identifying the underlying causes of your ischemic rest pain. This may involve assessing the blood flow, circulation, and any potential blockages in your veins and arteries. Understanding the extent of your symptoms and the severity of your condition is essential in determining the most suitable treatment options for you.

At Premier Vein Clinic, we understand that every patient is unique, and therefore, our approach is tailored to your individual needs. Dr. Naar will provide expert guidance and personalized medical advice based on your specific situation. He will explain the available treatment options, their benefits, and potential risks, ensuring that you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision about your healthcare.

Contact Premier Vein Clinic at (440) 641-0433 to find out more about vein treatments in Westlake.

Benefits of Treatment

  • Reduced pain levels: The primary goal of treatment is to alleviate or eliminate the discomfort experienced by individuals with ischemic rest pain. By addressing the underlying cause and improving blood flow, patients can experience relief from their pain.
  • Improved quality of life: Managing ischemic rest pain effectively can have a significant impact on overall well-being. Patients can regain the ability to perform daily activities without hindrance, leading to an enhanced quality of life.
  • Increased mobility: Treatment aims to improve blood flow to the affected area, which can result in better movement and reduced limitations on mobility. This allows individuals to engage in physical activities they may have previously been unable to do.
  • Prevention of tissue damage: Timely and appropriate treatment can prevent further damage to tissues in the affected area. By optimizing blood flow, the risk of complications such as ulcers or gangrene can be minimized.
  • Enhanced wound healing: Improved blood circulation to the affected area promotes faster and more effective healing of wounds or ulcers. Treatment helps create an environment conducive to proper healing and reduces the risk of infection.
  • Reduced risk of infection: Proper management of ischemic rest pain helps minimize the risk of infection in open wounds. By improving blood flow, the body’s natural defense mechanisms can function optimally, reducing the likelihood of infection.
  • Improved sleep patterns: Ischemic rest pain can often disturb sleep due to discomfort. Successful treatment can lead to improved sleep quality and duration, allowing patients to rest more comfortably.
  • Decreased dependency on pain medications: Effective management of ischemic rest pain may reduce the need for pain-relieving medications. This can minimize potential side effects and dependency issues, leading to a more balanced and healthier lifestyle.
  • Lowered risk of amputation: Timely diagnosis and treatment of ischemic rest pain can significantly reduce the risk of amputation. By preserving the health and function of affected limbs, patients can avoid the devastating consequences of amputation.

Cost of Vein Treatment in Westlake

The cost of managing ischemic rest pain can vary depending on several factors. At Premier Vein Clinic, we understand the financial implications of seeking treatment for this condition and strive to provide affordable medical solutions to our patients.

Remember, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing peripheral vascular disease and reducing the risk of complications. Take the first step towards healthier legs and improved quality of life by contacting Premier Vein Clinic today at (440) 641-0433 or by filling out a short inquiry form.

Read more about varicose vein treatment and other treatments at Premier Vein Clinic by reading Dr. Naar’s blog.

FAQ

What is ischemic rest pain?

Ischemic rest pain is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It causes leg and foot pain, can limit mobility, and can disrupt sleep. Individuals with this condition may find it challenging to engage in regular activities or even perform simple tasks without experiencing pain.

What do I do if I have ischemic leg pain?

If you are experiencing leg pain at rest or suspect that you may have poor circulation, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. A comprehensive evaluation by a vascular specialist can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment options.

References

  1. Gul F, Janzer SF. Peripheral Vascular Disease. PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557482/ 
  2. Jones S, Swaminathan A, Patel M, Vemulapalli S. Lower extremity amputation in peripheral artery disease: improving patient outcomes. Vascular Health and Risk Management. Published online July 2014:417. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/vhrm.s50588