Iowa Specialty Hospital

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Walking Program Available

September 30, 2019

PAD Walking Program imageIf you answer yes to any of the risk factors below, you may be at risk for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). 

  • 50 years of age or older
  • Smoker
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney Disease
  • High Cholesterol
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Family History of PAD

PAD is life-threatening condition that causes the narrowing or blockage of the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the legs. Also known as claudication, poor circulation, vascular disease or hardening of the arteries, PAD is a buildup of plaque in the peripheral arteries which slows blood flow to the legs. Blockages can cause muscle cramps, tightness or weakness, especially during activity. 

In early stages, there may be no symptoms, but as PAD progresses, the following symptoms may appear:

  • Leg pain when walking
  • Muscle pain or cramping in the legs and calves triggered by activity
  • Leg numbness or weakness
  • Coldness in lower leg or foot
  • Sores on toes, legs, or feet that won’t heal
  • Change in the color of legs

If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider immediately. 

With a referral from your provider, you could participate in the PAD Walking Program offered by our Cardiopulmonary Department. Over the course of 36 sessions, the team will work with you to increase your walking distance and endurance while reducing the pain associated with PAD.  The PAD Walking Program is available in Belmond and Clarion. To learn more contact the Cardiopulmonary Department in Clarion at 515-532-9351 or Belmond at 641-444-5671.

Through their help and your determination, you can walk your way to better health. 

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