Introduction
This exercise program is designed specifically for patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) to improve circulation, reduce symptoms, and enhance walking ability.
Program Overview
Goals
- Increase walking distance before claudication onset
- Improve overall cardiovascular health
- Reduce PAD symptoms
- Enhance quality of life
Exercise Guidelines
Walking Sessions
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Frequency: 3-5 times per week
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Duration: 30-60 minutes per session
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Intensity: Walk until moderate pain develops (3-4 on a scale of 1-5)
The Exercise Protocol
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Warm-up (5-10 minutes)
- Gentle walking
- Light stretching
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Main Exercise (20-40 minutes)
- Walk until moderate leg pain develops
- Rest until pain subsides completely
- Resume walking
- Repeat this cycle
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Cool-down (5-10 minutes)
- Slow walking
- Gentle stretching
Safety Considerations
Stop Exercise If You Experience:
- Severe chest pain
- Shortness of breath that doesn't improve with rest
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Severe leg pain that doesn't subside
Important Tips
- Wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes
- Stay hydrated
- Carry emergency contact information
- Keep track of your progress
Progress Monitoring
Keep a Log of:
- Walking duration
- Distance covered
- Time to pain onset
- Recovery time needed
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
- Increasing leg pain during rest
- Changes in skin color or temperature
- Development of sores or ulcers
- Significant decrease in exercise tolerance
Additional Resources
- Join a supervised exercise program if available
- Consider cardiac rehabilitation programs
- Consult with your healthcare provider about progress regularly