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Supervised exercise therapy for intermittent claudication in a community-based setting is as effective as
Bianca L Bendermacher1, Edith M Willigendael, Saskia P Nicolaï
1Department of Surgery, Atrium Medical Centre, Heerlen, The Netherlands.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|June 5, 2007
Summary
Supervised exercise therapy significantly improved walking distances for patients with intermittent claudication. This community-based approach offers a promising conservative treatment option, enhancing both initial and absolute claudication distances.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Intermittent claudication is a common symptom of peripheral arterial disease, significantly impacting quality of life.
- Conservative management options are crucial for patients unsuitable for or unwilling to undergo vascular intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of supervised exercise therapy (SET) in a community-based setting for improving walking distances in patients with intermittent claudication.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study included patients with intermittent claudication (ankle-brachial index <0.9) who underwent a 6-month community-based SET program.
- Walking distances (initial claudication distance and absolute claudication distance) were measured using progressive treadmill tests at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months.
Main Results:
- Data from 56 patients showed significant increases in walking distances.
- Mean initial claudication distance increased by 187% at 3 months and 240% at 6 months.
- Mean absolute claudication distance increased by 142% at 3 months and 191% at 6 months.
Conclusions:
- Community-based supervised exercise therapy is an effective conservative treatment for intermittent claudication.
- SET demonstrates potential for substantial improvements in functional walking capacity.
- This approach offers a viable alternative to surgical interventions for selected patients.
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