Most circulation problems are the result of disorders or changes in the "vascular" system -- the veins, arteries and capillaries that carry blood to and from your lower extremities. And leg pain is usually the first sign that you might have a problem with your circulation.

Symptoms may begin as innocently as a cramp-like pain in your hip, calf or buttocks when you walk. Or as troublesome as a sore on your leg or foot that takes an unusually long time to heal. Often times, people assume the pain is arthritis, or a natural part of getting older.

Identifying circulatory problems early is critical to successful treatment. And leg pain is a sign that deserves attention. If left unchecked, the symptoms could lead to much more serious conditions later on; debilitating pain, open wounds...even amputation.