Retrospective assessment of tailored exercise regimens in the rehabilitation of lower extremity arteriosclerosis obliterans.
Dan Shen, Rui Feng, Huan-Huan Xu, Xiu-Xiu Lai, Yang-Li Xu, Le-Gao Chen, Lei Chen
Abstract
Open AccessLower extremity arteriosclerosis obliterans (LEAO) is a prevalent peripheral vascular disorder that results in diminished blood circulation and compromised lower-limb function. Conventional rehabilitation typically relies on uniform exercise instructions, which may fail to accommodate the diverse needs of individual patients. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic value of personalized exercise prescriptions (PEPs) in enhancing lower-limb perfusion, walking performance, comfort, pain relief, and self-care ability among patients with LEAO, compared with standard exercise guidance. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 181 patients diagnosed with LEAO and treated at our institution between January 2023 and December 2024. Patients managed from January to December 2023 (n = 86) constituted the control group and received conventional exercise guidance, whereas those treated from January to December 2024 (n = 95) formed the observation group and followed individualized PEPs. Key outcomes included foot perfusion indices (Ankle-Brachial Index, arterial oxygen pressure, and arterial flow), walking performance (speed, distance, and stair-climbing ability), comfort level (General Comfort Questionnaire), pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale), and self-care competence (skills, responsibility, and health literacy). Statistical comparisons between groups were performed using independent-sample t-tests and Chi-square tests, with P < .05 indicating significance. Although both groups demonstrated significant improvements following intervention, patients in the observation group achieved markedly better outcomes. The post-intervention ABI in the observation group (0.75 ± 0.06) was significantly higher than that in the control group (0.69 ± 0.05, P < .0001). The observation group also showed greater enhancements in walking performance, particularly in stair-climbing ability (58.34 ± 7.93 vs 49.60 ± 8.47 steps/min, P < .0001). Moreover, reductions in pain and improvements in comfort were more pronounced among those receiving personalized prescriptions (P < .0001). Three months after discharge, the observation group exhibited significantly better self-care skills and health knowledge (P < .0001). Compared with generalized exercise guidance, Personalized Exercise Prescriptions offer superior benefits in the rehabilitation of patients with Lower Extremity Arteriosclerosis Obliterans. Tailored exercise interventions notably enhanced vascular perfusion, mobility, comfort, and self-care capacity. These results underscore the clinical value of incorporating personalized exercise programs into LEAO rehabilitation protocols to optimize patient recovery and functional outcomes.