Unsupervised exercise and mobility loss in peripheral artery disease: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Behavioral Science
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD) significantly impairs lower extremity functioning.
• Limited medical therapies effectively improve mobility in PAD patients.
• Home-based exercise interventions show promise for managing PAD complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a group-mediated cognitive behavioral intervention (GMCBI) for improving functional performance in PAD.
• To assess the intervention's effect on preventing mobility loss and enhancing walking velocity.
• To compare the GMCBI to a control group receiving lectures and telephone support.

Main Methods:

• 194 PAD participants were randomized into intervention and control groups.
• The intervention group received weekly group support and self-regulatory skills training for home-based walking exercise.
• The control group attended weekly lectures, with both groups receiving telephone contact from months 6-12.

Main Results:

• Fewer intervention participants experienced mobility loss at 6 months (6.3% vs. 26.5%) and 12 months (5.2% vs. 18.5%).
• The intervention significantly improved fast-paced 4-m walking velocity at 6 months (P=0.005).
• The Short Physical Performance Battery score improved in the intervention group at 12 months (P=0.027).

Conclusions:

• A group-mediated cognitive behavioral intervention effectively prevented mobility loss in PAD patients.
• The intervention demonstrated significant improvements in functional performance, including walking velocity and overall physical function.
• This approach offers a viable strategy for enhancing lower extremity functioning in individuals with PAD.