Final answer:
Neurogenic (spinal) claudication is caused by nerve compression in the spine, while vascular claudication is caused by reduced blood flow to the leg muscles due to peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Step-by-step explanation:
Neurogenic (spinal) claudication and vascular claudication are two different types of leg pain that can occur while walking, but they have different underlying causes. Neurogenic claudication is caused by compression or irritation of the nerves in the spine, usually due to spinal stenosis or a herniated disc.
This can result in pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs, which typically worsens with walking or prolonged standing and improves with sitting or bending forward. Vascular claudication, on the other hand, is caused by reduced blood flow to the leg muscles due to peripheral artery disease (PAD).
This condition is typically caused by atherosclerosis, which leads to narrowing or blockage of the arteries. The leg pain in vascular claudication is usually described as a cramping or aching pain that occurs with exertion, such as walking, and is relieved with rest.