What Exercises Are Safe for Someone with PAD?

1. What Exercises Are Safe for Someone with PAD? Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition that narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the limbs, particularly the legs. If you’ve been diagnosed with PAD, you might worry that exercise could make your symptoms worse. Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to manage and improve PAD. Safe and regular exercises—done under the guidance of a medical expert—can improve circulation, ease pain, and enhance quality of life. Always consult a peripheral artery disease doctor in Los Angeles to determine a suitable fitness plan before starting any routine. Understanding PAD and the Importance of Exercise Peripheral artery disease limits blood flow to your legs and feet, often causing pain, cramping, or fatigue during movement—especially walking. However, staying inactive can worsen the

2. condition and lead to further complications. Safe exercises, combined with appropriate PAD treatment, can help reverse some symptoms by promoting better circulation and increasing the oxygen supply to your muscles. A well-designed exercise program can: ● Reduce leg pain and improve walking distance ● Support overall cardiovascular health ● Lower the need for medication or surgical intervention ● Help manage blood pressure and cholesterol It's essential to get advice from a peripheral artery disease doctor in Los Angeles before beginning any new activity, especially if you’re experiencing severe symptoms. Best Exercises for Individuals with PAD Not all exercises are created equal for people with PAD. Some may be too intense or put too much strain on the legs. Here are some of the best options recommended for patients undergoing peripheral artery disease treatment: 1. Walking Walking is considered the gold standard for PAD-friendly exercise. It’s simple, low-impact, and can be adapted based on your fitness level. The key is interval walking—walk until you feel mild to moderate pain, rest until it goes away, and repeat. Tips for walking with PAD: ● Aim for 30 to 45 minutes at least 3 times a week ● Use a flat, stable surface ● Track your progress to stay motivated Walking helps develop new blood vessels and improve blood flow to your legs, making it a core component of any PAD treatment plan. 2. Cycling on a Stationary Bike Stationary biking is a safe alternative to walking if it becomes too painful. It allows you to exercise your leg muscles without putting too much pressure on your joints. Benefits include: ● Improved leg strength ● Increased endurance ● Less strain on feet and ankles

3. Again, moderation is key. Start slow and gradually increase your pace and duration under the supervision of a peripheral artery disease doctor. 3. Leg and Foot Exercises Simple movements such as leg raises, ankle pumps and toe curls can be performed at home and help promote blood circulation. These exercises are gentle yet effective in keeping the lower limbs active. Try: ● Ankle circles ● Heel lifts ● Seated leg extensions These can be incorporated throughout the day, especially for those who sit for long periods. 4. Swimming and Water Aerobics Water-based exercises are excellent for PAD patients, especially those dealing with joint pain or obesity. Swimming and water aerobics reduce pressure on the legs while allowing full-body movement. Advantages: ● Low-impact ● Builds endurance ● Strengthens muscles gently This can be a great supplement to your main PAD treatment routine. What to Avoid When Exercising with PAD? While staying active is crucial, certain precautions must be taken to avoid worsening your symptoms. Avoid: ● High-impact activities like running or jumping ● Exercising in extreme temperatures (cold or heat can worsen PAD symptoms) ● Ignoring leg pain; always rest and resume when the pain subsides ● Skipping warm-ups and cool-downs

4. It’s also essential to monitor your progress and consult your peripheral artery disease doctor if new or existing symptoms worsen. Building a Safe and Effective Exercise Routine Creating a routine that suits your needs is essential. Start slow and gradually increase the intensity and duration. Here’s how you can stay consistent: ● Set realistic goals and track your improvements ● Keep a journal to note pain levels, duration, and distance ● Join a supervised exercise program if possible ● Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes ● Rest as needed, and don’t push through intense pain Your PAD treatment plan should also include lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, and managing diabetes or high blood pressure. When to Seek Medical Advice? If you experience persistent pain, numbness, or wounds on your feet that don’t heal, seek immediate medical care. These may indicate worsening PAD that requires advanced peripheral artery disease treatment such as medication, angioplasty, or surgery. Your doctor may recommend supervised exercise therapy, a structured program proven to help PAD patients walk longer distances with less pain. Final Thoughts Exercising with PAD isn’t just possible—it’s beneficial. While the pain may initially feel discouraging, staying consistent and working with your peripheral artery disease doctor in Los Angeles can lead to significant improvements. Choose low-impact, safe exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling to support better blood flow and healthier legs. Always remember: the right PAD treatment plan combines medication, lifestyle changes, and regular physical activity. With the proper guidance and patience, you can regain strength, mobility, and a better quality of life.