Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common atherosclerotic condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the lower extremities, leading to intermittent claudication, decreased walking capacity, and impaired quality of life. Supervised exercise therapy is recommended as the first-line non-invasive treatment for patients with PAD; however, participation in center-based programs is often limited due to accessibility, time constraints, and symptom-related barriers.
This randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a hybrid cardiac rehabilitation program compared with conventional supervised exercise therapy in individuals diagnosed with peripheral artery disease. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a hybrid cardiac rehabilitation group or a supervised exercise therapy group.
The hybrid cardiac rehabilitation program will combine center-based supervised exercise sessions with home-based telerehabilitation, supported by remote monitoring and wearable activity tracking devices. The supervised exercise therapy group will receive a fully center-based, physiotherapist-supervised exercise program. Both interventions will be delivered over a 12-week period.
Primary outcomes will include walking performance and functional capacity. Secondary outcomes will assess exercise adherence, symptom severity, physical activity levels, and quality of life. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence on the feasibility and effectiveness of hybrid cardiac rehabilitation as an alternative rehabilitation model for patients with peripheral artery disease.
Diagnosis of peripheral artery disease with stable intermittent claudication.
Fontaine stage I-II or Rutherford category 1-3.
Age between 50 and 70 years.
Ability to walk independently without assistive devices.
Critical limb ischemia or rest pain.
Recent lower extremity revascularization or major surgery within the past 6 months.
Unstable cardiovascular conditions (e.g., unstable angina, uncontrolled arrhythmias).
Severe pulmonary, neurological, or musculoskeletal disorders limiting exercise participation.