A Review of Exercise Protocols for Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease

Objectives: To determine effective exercise programs for treatment of peripheral arterial disease and intermittent claudication. Data Sources: PubMed, Cinahl, Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Review Methods: A search of the terms "peripheral arterial disease and exercise," "peripheral arterial disease and rehabilitation," "claudication and exercise," "claudication and rehabilitation," "peripheral arterial disease and physical therapy," and "claudication and physical therapy" was performed. Results: Including limits, 544 randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies were identified for years 2000-2013. Following elimination of duplicates/excluding articles based on the exclusion criteria, 33 RCTs remained for review. Conclusion: Outcomes from trials with various modes, intensities, frequencies, and durations are reviewed.