Peripheral artery disease (PAD) rehabilitation

If you have peripheral artery disease (PAD), you may experience intermittent symptoms known as claudication. Claudication symptoms include fatigue, pain, cramping, aching or numbness in the thighs, calves or buttocks while walking. These symptoms are caused by poor circulation in your legs due to the narrowing of your peripheral arteries that limits your blood flow.

PAD symptoms can make your day-to-day tasks difficult. Although PAD is not reversible, the rate at which it progresses can be slowed. Our team of vascular rehab specialists are dedicated to assisting you in managing your PAD symptoms, so you can return to the activities you enjoy most.

What is peripheral artery disease rehab?

As part of your PAD rehabilitation plan, you’ll participate in a treadmill walking program and attend education classes. Exercise is the top recommendation by the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology for the management of PAD symptoms.

We see great symptom improvement when you walk on the treadmill at least 30 minutes, three or more days per week.

Our PAD rehabilitation program includes:

• An initial screening including medical history, risk factor identification and blood pressure monitoring
• Establishing a regular walking program
• Support and education for modifying risk factors including:
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Cholesterol
  • Stress

Getting started with peripheral artery disease rehab

You must meet qualifying criteria to be eligible for this physician-ordered program. Your primary care physician, cardiologist or vascular specialist may refer you to PAD rehab if you have peripheral artery disease with claudication symptoms. Most insurance plans cover PAD rehab.

How long is the peripheral artery disease rehab program?

Most patients attend one-hour group exercise sessions two to three days per week for up to 12 weeks.