Supervised exercise therapy for patients with peripheral artery disease: Clinical update and pathways forward

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Cardiovascular Rehabilitation
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common cause of illness and death, especially in older adults.
• Supervised exercise therapy (SET) is a primary treatment for symptomatic PAD, improving function and outcomes.
• Despite proven effectiveness and guideline support, SET faces persistent barriers in awareness, access, and implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current landscape of supervised exercise therapy (SET) for peripheral artery disease (PAD).
• To identify persistent challenges hindering SET awareness, access, and implementation.
• To explore innovative digital health and hybrid approaches to overcome SET barriers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current SET protocols and guidelines for PAD.
• Analysis of challenges impacting SET delivery and patient access.
• Examination of emerging digital and hybrid models for SET.

Main Results:

• SET is a Class IA guideline-recommended therapy for symptomatic PAD.
• Significant challenges remain in patient and provider awareness of SET benefits.
• Digital and hybrid SET models show promise in increasing flexibility and accessibility.

Conclusions:

• SET is crucial for managing PAD, yet implementation gaps persist.
• Addressing awareness and access barriers is essential for effective PAD care.
• Novel delivery formats like digital and hybrid SET are vital for equitable patient access and improved outcomes.