PAD Supervised Exercise

Catholic Health Peripheral Artery Disease Physical Therapy

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a condition in which plaque build-up reduces the blood flow to your leg arteries. If you have PAD, you may experience discomfort or pain in your legs when you walk, a symptom called claudication. 

Leg pain typically begins when you start to exercise and goes away after you rest.

A supervised walking program, available by prescription from your doctor, can help to reduce your symptoms and gradually increase the amount of time that you’re able to walk without pain. 

Benefits of a Walking Program

As a result of your walking program with Catholic Health, you will be able to:

  • Walk for longer periods of time before needing to rest
  • Reduce your leg pain
  • Build muscle
  • Lose weight or maintain your weight
  • Reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke

What to Expect During Therapy

Your one-on-one therapy sessions will occur about two or three times per week. Each appointment is 30 to 60 minutes long. 

Your treatment will focus on improving your walking tolerance. You will most often use a treadmill for your exercise program. You may also exercise with a stationary bike, an arm bike or weights. 

During the program, your vital signs and responses to exercise will be monitored so that your program may be adjusted according to your progress. 

What to Wear

Please wear comfortable clothing and sneakers that you are able to exercise in.

Insurance Coverage

This service is covered by most insurances.

A prescription from your doctor may be required, depending on your insurance. Please check with your insurance company. Medicare and medicaid require a prescription.