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Improving maximum walking distance in early peripheral arterial disease: randomised controlled trial
Bess Fowler1, Konrad Jamrozik, Paul Norman
1University of Western Australia, Australia. b.fowler@graduates.uwa.edu.au
The Australian Journal of Physiotherapy
|November 22, 2002
Summary
Increased physical activity and smoking cessation improved walking distance in men with early peripheral arterial disease. Community-based physiotherapy programs show potential for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Exercise Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) affects leg circulation, leading to reduced walking ability.
- Early PAD management often focuses on risk factor modification.
- Lifestyle interventions like exercise and smoking cessation are crucial for PAD progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of increased physical activity and smoking cessation on early peripheral arterial disease.
- To evaluate a community-based intervention program for men with PAD.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 882 men with early PAD in Western Australia.
- Intervention group received a 'stop smoking and keep walking' program.
- Control group received usual care from their general practitioner.
Main Results:
- At 12 months, the intervention group showed a significant improvement in maximum walking distance (23% vs 15%; p=0.008).
- More intervention participants engaged in regular recreational walking (34% vs 25%; p=0.01).
- A trend towards increased smoking cessation was observed in the intervention group (12% vs 8%).
Conclusions:
- Community-based physiotherapy programs can enhance physical activity levels in patients with intermittent claudication.
- These interventions can effectively reduce disability associated with peripheral arterial disease.
- Accessible community interventions offer a promising approach to improve early PAD outcomes.