Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease
PAD occurs due to atherosclerosis, a process that causes arteries supplying blood to the limbs to narrow or become blocked. This reduces oxygen supply during physical activity, triggering cramping pain, weakness, fatigue, and difficulty walking even short distances. In untreated severe cases, PAD may lead to non-healing ulcers and gangrene, often requiring amputation.
A Case Transformed by a Walking Protocol
Dr. Sumit Kapadia, a vascular surgeon with nearly two decades of experience, treated a patient suffering from excruciating leg pain and weakness who could walk only a few steps before feeling exhausted. Despite prolonged medical treatment, several doctors warned him that amputation might be unavoidable.
Rather than opting immediately for an invasive surgery, Dr. Kapadia recommended a structured intermittent walking program, which is increasingly recognised as an effective therapy for PAD.
“Intermittent walking consists of walking briskly for a period of two to five minutes, followed by a short rest period, after which this cycle is repeated for as long as one hour per session, several times weekly.”
This walking approach helps expand collateral arteries—the body’s natural bypass vessels—improving blood flow around blocked arteries. Over time, this increases the oxygen supply to leg muscles and reduces pain while walking.
Steady Progress and Improved Independence
Initially, the patient struggled with even short bouts of walking. But with perseverance and consistency, his endurance improved week after week. Pain that once made movement unbearable steadily decreased. Within a few weeks, he was able to walk longer distances and climb stairs with less discomfort, gradually restoring independence and mobility.What once felt like a burden became a sustainable part of his routine as his legs grew stronger and more resilient.
Why Intermittent Walking Works
Research supports structured walking as an effective therapeutic approach for PAD. Studies indicate that such programs can:
- Increase pain-free walking distance
- Reduce leg cramps, fatigue, and weakness
- Enhance overall functional ability
- Improve confidence and psychological well-being
For many PAD patients, intermittent walking offers a powerful non-surgical treatment option that can significantly improve quality of life.
Encouraging Patient Education
Physicians now emphasize the importance of patient training, supervised exercise planning, and continuous monitoring. Patients benefit from understanding that small and consistent efforts can lead to dramatic improvements.
“Intermittent walking is not only exercise but also a therapeutic approach.”
Many experts believe that empowering patients with structured movement plans is key to preventing disability and restoring independence.
[With TOI inputs]