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Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Computerized Dynamic Posturography for Postural Control Assessment in Patients with Intermittent Claudication
Published on: December 11, 2013
[The history of intermittent claudication due to arterial disease]
1Service d'urgences, hôpital Beaujon, 100 boulevard du Général-Leclerc, 92118 Clichy cedex, France. michel-lacombe@club-internet.fr
Insights
Intermittent claudication, a symptom of arterial occlusive disease, was first described by Jean-François Bouley and Jean-Martin Charcot. Later research refined understanding but did not improve upon their initial clinical observations.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Neurology
- Medical History
Context:
- The clinical manifestation of intermittent claudication was initially detailed by veterinary surgeon Jean-François Bouley and neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot.
- Arterial occlusive disease is a significant cause of intermittent claudication, impacting patient mobility and quality of life.
Purpose:
- To highlight the foundational contributions of Bouley and Charcot to the understanding of intermittent claudication.
- To underscore the enduring accuracy of the initial clinical descriptions of this condition.
Summary:
- The seminal clinical descriptions of intermittent claudication, a hallmark of arterial occlusive disease, were established by Jean-François Bouley and Jean-Martin Charcot.
- Subsequent medical advancements have elucidated the etiology, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic strategies for intermittent claudication.
- However, these later developments have not surpassed the accuracy and completeness of the original clinical observations made by these pioneers.
Impact:
- Recognizing the historical context of intermittent claudication provides a baseline for evaluating current diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.
- Emphasizes the importance of detailed clinical observation in medical science.
- Reinforces the foundational knowledge in vascular and neurological medicine.
Abstract:
The clinical description of intermittent claudication due to arterial occlusive disease was made by two French precursors: a veterinary surgeon, Jean-François Bouley, and a neurologist, Jean-Martin Charcot. The subsequent works clarified the aetiology, the investigations and the treatment of this trouble but did not add anything to the initial description.
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