Ischemic Preconditioning Claudication Study

This study proposes ischemic preconditioning (IPC) as a novel intervention to improve walking
distance in patients with intermittent claudication. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a
circulatory condition in which large supply blood vessels narrow, reducing oxygen and
nutrient distribution to peripheral tissues. IPC protects against tissue damage caused by
ischemia and can improve functional capacity in patients recovering from stroke; however, the
benefit of ischemic preconditioning in patients with peripheral arterial disease remains
unclear.

The investigators predict that ischemic preconditioning (IPC) will delay claudication onset
time (COT), increase peak walking time (PWT) and improve muscle strength in patients with
intermittent claudication.

The investigators will determine whether IPC improves claudication onset time (COT) and peak
walking time (PWT) in patients with intermittent claudication. A motorized treadmill will be
employed to assess COT and PWT.

The investigators will determine whether IPC can improve muscle strength and time to pain
onset in the affected leg of patients with intermittent claudication. These metrics will be
assessed quantitatively using a Biodex™ dynamometer.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. between ages of 18-80

2. able to give informed consent

3. presence of vascular disease with intermittent claudication

Exclusion Criteria:

1. age < 18 or >80

2. unable to give informed consent

3. presence of vascular disease with leg pain at rest, ischemic ulceration, or gangrene

4. pregnancy

5. unable to walk on a treadmill

6. unable to perform or tolerate ischemic preconditioning

7. unable to follow commands

8. exercise capacity limited by symptoms of angina, congestive heart failure, chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease, or arthritis to be determined by PI

9. patients who have undergone vascular surgery or endovascular surgery in the previous
year on the affected leg

10. history of major lower extremity amputation

11. history of major psychiatric disorder

12. history of uncontrolled hypertension