When walking is a pain…
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a narrowing or blockage in the arteries of the legs. While most people who have PAD do not have symptoms, some experience fatigue, pain, cramping, aching or numbness in the thighs, calves or buttocks. This discomfort usually occurs when walking more than a block, walking quickly or when climbing stairs, and can make day-to-day physical tasks difficult. Severe PAD can lead to slow-healing wounds, gangrene or even amputation.

Rehabilitation can help
Studies have shown that supervised exercise rehabilitation increased pain-free walking time an average of 180 percent. Walking time also increased 120 percent. The greatest improvements occur when an individual walks at least 30 minutes three or more days per week. Fairview’s Peripheral Arterial Disease Rehabilitation program helps individuals achieve a regular routine and decrease the risk of future blockages. 

Fairview’s PAD rehabilitation program offers:

• an initial screening, including medical history, risk factor screening, heart and blood pressure monitoring.
• up to 18 supervised exercise sessions using treadmills. 
• a stretching/flexibilty and muscle-conditioning program.
• support for modifying risk factors like:
• smoking cessation
• controlling hypertension
• lowering cholesterol
• establishing a regular exercise program
• stress management techniques

For more information
If you have been diagnosed with Peripheral Arterial Disease and are ready to commit to a regular walking program, ask your doctor if this program is right for you.  

Contact information
Fairview’s Peripheral Arterial Disease Rehabilitation is offered at three convenient locations in the metro area:  Fairview Ridges Hospital, Fairview Southdale Hospital, and at University of Minnesota Medical Center. 

For more information call 952-892-2527. 

To schedule an appointment, call 612-273-1118.