Identifying Peripheral Arterial Diseases or Flow Limitations of the Lower Limb
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- RRS Education
Pain into the lower limbs can be caused by many conditions including peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which is a common and potentially serious condition of the lower limb. Despite its frequency in the population, the diagnosis of this condition can be challenging as it can mimic or present alongside other neuro-musculoskeletal conditions such as lumbar radiculopathy or lumbar spinal stenosis.
The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of peripheral arterial disease from the perspective of a manual therapist.
An excerpt from the Clinical Applications & Conclusion section of the Review: "Addressing modifiable risk factors early, such as smoking cessation, blood pressure, glycated hemoglobin control, antiplatelet prescription and weight loss for overweight patients is a main component for the management of this condition. The initial management also comprises of the prescription and implementation of exercise therapy for symptom reduction. Although supervised and unsupervised exercises have shown to improve symptoms, clinical practice guidelines recommend supervised exercise therapy as a first line treatment. A home-based program is also effective and is a safe alternative. Guidelines recommend that each session be performed for a minimum of 30-45 minutes, at least 3 times per week for a minimum of 12 weeks."
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This paper was published in Musculoskeletal Science and Practice (2022) and this Review is posted in Recent Reviews, Geriatrics, Clinical Practice, Lumbar Spinal Stenosis and the 2023 Archive.
