PAD: Managing Work and Leg Pain

Impact of Peripheral Artery Disease on Work Productivity

How Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Messes with Your Job

A few years ago, Dale Smith, assistant manager of a grocery store, couldn’t walk more than a few steps without experiencing excruciating leg and toe pain. Imagine the agony of dealing with that while trying to manage a bustling store! But now, thanks to effective treatment and some smart workplace adjustments, she can strut around pain-free, racking up an impressive 15,000 steps on her trusty smartwatch.

Dale’s journey began after a heart attack, which led her to discover she had peripheral artery disease (PAD). This condition causes the arteries in the legs to narrow, resulting in pain during physical activity. With an angioplasty procedure and medication for pain and cholesterol, Dale started her road to recovery.

Work Gets in the Way

When diagnosed with PAD, your doctor bombards you with advice on exercise, diet, and medication. However, the impact of PAD on your work life often gets overlooked. Considering that the majority of PAD cases occur in people aged 50 or older, this oversight leaves a significant chunk of working years to navigate for individuals like Dale Smith.

According to Damon Pierce, a vascular surgeon, “PAD is all about lifestyle adjustments, and work is a major part of everyone’s life.” He shares the story of an auto mechanic who faced PAD-related leg cramps due to the physically demanding nature of his job. Fortunately, after negotiating a less strenuous workload, he found relief and continued his career.

Typical PAD symptoms, such as leg pain, trouble walking, and slow-healing sores, may not warrant a career change. However, the discomfort can affect productivity. It’s crucial to make adjustments that keep you comfortable and pain-free, allowing you to thrive in your profession.

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Adjusting Your Work Routine

To successfully manage PAD at work, consider the following recommendations from doctors:

• Make time for exercise: A leisurely 10-minute stroll won’t cut it. Instead, combine your lunch hour with breaks for an intense, hour-long walk. Think of it as a power-walk towards a healthier you!
• Take mental health breaks: Job-related stress worsens the symptoms of PAD. Combat this by taking short mental breaks throughout the day. Meditate, walk around the office, or simply breathe in some fresh air. A few minutes away from work can do wonders for your well-being.
• Stay warm: Cold temperatures hinder blood flow, so be sure to dress warmly while at work. If necessary, don’t hesitate to ask your employer to turn up the thermostat. Keep those tootsies toasty!
• Pay attention to your diet: When eating out, opt for low-fat, low-salt choices. If your workplace cafeteria lacks heart-healthy options, suggest adding some nutritious fare. Fueling your body properly is essential for combatting PAD.
• Think about air quality: Avoid areas where co-workers gather for smoke breaks, as this can worsen your symptoms. Additionally, steer clear of work environments with poor air quality. Your lungs will thank you!
• Invest in good footwear: If your job requires a lot of walking or driving, invest in comfortable and durable shoes. Your feet deserve the best support and cushioning.

Advocating for Workplace Accommodations

You don’t have to consider a career change just because you have PAD. However, it’s crucial to communicate openly with your employer about your condition and treatment plan. Damon Pierce often writes letters for PAD patients to give to their supervisors, explaining the necessary adjustments. If needed, here are a few scenarios to consider:

1. Request a change of duties: If your job involves physically demanding tasks or heavy lifting, discuss the possibility of altering your responsibilities. Sitting at a desk doesn’t normally increase the risk unless your PAD is advanced.
2. Negotiate time extensions or additional hours: Remember that honesty is key. If PAD is causing fatigue and slowing you down, communicate this to your employer. If necessary, ask for extended deadlines or additional work hours.
3. Ask for flexible doctor’s appointment scheduling: Requesting time off for medical appointments shouldn’t be a cause for stress. Discuss the possibility of flexible scheduling to accommodate your healthcare needs.

Asking your boss for flexibility might make you nervous, but remember that you have a legal right to request reasonable accommodations. If your doctor certifies that PAD substantially limits your ability to perform your duties, the Americans with Disabilities Act protects your rights.

Taking Sick Leave

Despite your best efforts, PAD symptoms may occasionally necessitate time away from work. If possible, use your paid vacation or sick days for these periods of respite. However, what if you’ve already exhausted your time off for the year?

Fortunately, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides a safety net. Under this act, you can request up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year. To qualify, you must have worked for at least a year at a company with 50 or more employees. Rest assured, you can’t be fired or lose your health insurance benefits if you take unpaid medical leave. Just make sure to inform your employer at least 30 days in advance and provide a letter from your doctor if requested.

Using Disability Insurance

For some individuals, the pain and difficulty caused by PAD can become too overwhelming to continue working. The Social Security Administration recognizes PAD as a potential disability, allowing you to claim disability benefits. However, it’s important to note that simply mentioning pain and difficulty walking won’t suffice. You’ll need medical proof, such as imaging tests and blood pressure readings. To navigate the process, it may be wise to seek the assistance of an attorney specializing in disability claims.

Making It All Work Together

PAD-related pain and discomfort can be formidable obstacles in your work life. However, with the right approach, you can still find fulfillment in your career while managing the condition. The key is to advocate for necessary improvements and not hesitate to ask for help. Remember, you deserve a rewarding work life that supports your wellbeing.

Did you find this article helpful? How are you managing your PAD at work? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!