Peripheral Artery Disease - Should you walk until it hurts?

Today’s minisode is all about intermittent claudication. We’ll define what claudication is, how it presents in peripheral artery disease (PAD), and what we mean by the ischemic threshold in the leg. Then we’ll tackle the practice of walking to moderate claudication pain—typically a 3 out of 4 on the claudication scale—why many programs still prescribe it, and when alternatives like interval walking or cycling make sense. Finally, we’ll connect this to ACSM guidelines for PAD: how to set intensity, when to stop or rest, how to progress safely, and how to personalize the plan for real patients in supervised or home‑based rehab.DisclaimerThis podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or provide medical advice. The information presented is based on current guidelines, the scientific literature, and academic publications, but it may not apply to every individual or situation. If you have a medical condition or are unsure whether exercise is safe for you, please consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program. The host and guests of this podcast disclaim any liability for injury or harm resulting from the use or misuse of the information presented.