Peripheral Arterial Disease and Exercise

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Regular exercise can decrease leg pain that occurs with exercise (called intermittent claudication) in some people who have peripheral arterial disease (PAD).

Your doctor may want you to try a supervised exercise program. This program may include both walking and weight training exercises. You will work with a therapist at an exercise facility such as a rehab center. Each day you will walk until the pain starts, then rest until it goes away before continuing. Your therapist will ask you to try to walk just a little farther each day before resting. Don't try to walk through the pain. The goal is to increase the amount of time you can exercise before the pain starts. You will see the greatest improvements if you exercise for more than 30 minutes at least 3 days a week.

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You may start a similar walking program at home (with your doctor's approval).

If you have any symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness during exercise, report these symptoms to your doctor before continuing your exercise program.

Regular exercise can reduce your risk of PAD by helping to:

Lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Regulate blood sugar (important for people with diabetes).
Lose weight.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 16, 2009

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.