Peripheral artery disease (PAD) rehabilitation is designed for individuals who have intermittent claudication symptoms, which is pain caused by too little blood flow to muscles during exercise. The PAD rehab program improves your heart and blood vessel health along with reducing your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Core components

• Baseline patient assessment.
• Exercise training.
• Nutritional counseling.
• Physical activity counseling.
• Psychosocial management.
• Risk factor management (lipids, hypertension, weight, diabetes and smoking).

The education component

Education will increase your awareness of peripheral arterial disease, its causes, prevention and treatment. Classes are incorporated into the scheduled sessions.

The exercise component

The program helps you develop a regular walking routine. Exercise programs are individually tailored and are completed on the treadmill. The two goals for the walking program include:

• To reduce or stop the pain you feel when you walk.
• To increase the distance you can walk before symptoms begin.

Participants can attend one to three sessions weekly. Insurance typically covers up to 36 sessions in 12 weeks. Please contact your insurance with questions.

Cost

Most insurance, health maintenance organizations and government reimbursement plans will cover 80% of program costs. Direct questions to your provider.

Enrollment

Your physician will refer you to the program.

Additional information

Please note the following:

• Do not eat a heavy meal prior to exercise session.
• Take your medication on your normal schedule.
• Wear comfortable clothing.
• Wear rubber-soled shoes with arch support.