“You can’t walk with cramp!” A qualitative exploration of individuals’ beliefs and experiences of walking as treatment for intermittent claudication

Walking is an effective but underused treatment for intermittent claudication. This qualitative study explored people's experiences of and beliefs about their illness and walking with intermittent claudication. Using the Framework method, semi-structured in-depth interviews included 19 individuals with intermittent claudication, and were informed by the Theory of Planned Behaviour and Common Sense Model of Illness Representations. Walking was overlooked as a self-management opportunity, regardless of perceptions of intermittent claudication as severe or benign. Participants desired tailored advice, including purposeful and vigorous exercise, and the potential outcome of walking. Uncertainties about their illness and treatment may explain low walking participation among people with intermittent claudication.