Electrical Stimulation Versus Resistant Exercise Training on Management of Intermittent Claudication

BACKGROUND: while the arteries that supply the lower extremities become atherosclerotic narrowed, a condition known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) develops. This narrowing may induce intermittent claudication, which is discomfort or cramping felt while walking. Clinically significant improvements in walking ability along with quality of life are elicited by supervised resistance exercise training as well as electrical stimulation currents. PURPOSE: to detect the effect of Electrical stimulation compared with resistance exercises training in treating intermittent claudication by assessing maximal level of claudication pain, physical performance, walking performance, the influence of PAD on quality of life and blood flow level toward the lower limb. DESIGN: randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Intermittent claudication male and female patients selected from the cardiovascular and respiratory department, of Menufeia Hospital. SUBJECTS: Thirty male and female patients who had intermittent claudication. METHODS: Patients were randomized two equivalent groups using computer-generated block randomization program, Electric stimulation current in the form of TENS was given to Group "A", and resistance training exercises program were given to Group "B" throughout the course of 3 months of intervention. The patients' pre- and post-treatment evaluations were performed using Pad treadmill protocols for measuring Maximum walking distant, and Claudication onset time, physical performance was measured by applying 6MWT, Ankle brachial pressure index was evaluated utilizing Mercury sphygmomanometer and hand held Doppler, and finally, Quality of life was assessed by (WIQ), and VascuQoL-6. RESULTS: a significant improvement was observed in both groups with favor to the group B.