Physical exercise for peripheral vascular disease

Journal/Book: VASA. 1987; 16: 227-231.

Abstract: Regular physical exercise is clinically effective in peripheral vascular disease. In particular stage II patients benefit in terms of a marked prolongation of walking distance. The possible mechanisms by which this is achieved are hydrodynamic, metabolic or structural changes, economizing of walking, psychological factors, and retardation of arteriosclerotic progression. The author furthermore suggests a contributing hemorheological factor: regular physical training leads to a fluidification of blood which in turn could enhance perfusion in hypoxic areas. Most likely the combination of several interacting mechanisms is the true cause of the symptomatic improvemet. Not withstanding the unresolved question of ist mode of action, regular exercise the treatment of choise in claudication.

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Physical exercise for peripheral vascular disease - a review