NCT06420752 · University of Wisconsin, La Crosse
Passive Stretching in Peripheral Arterial Disease Patients
What this study is about
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) leads to higher mortality rates and strains healthcare systems due to increased costs. It causes leg pain during walking due to reduced blood flow. Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency contributes to vascular issues in PAD, with few effective treatments available. Passive calf muscle stretching boosts NO levels, vascular health, and walking ability in PAD patients.
View original scientific description
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) leads to higher mortality rates and strains healthcare systems due to increased costs. It causes leg pain during walking due to reduced blood flow. Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency contributes to vascular issues in PAD, with few effective treatments available. Passive calf muscle stretching boosts NO levels, vascular health, and walking ability in PAD patients. However, the inflammatory processes underlying these improvements are unclear. This study aims to track inflammatory markers and cardiovascular changes during 12 weeks of passive stretching. Additionally, combining stretching with dietary nitrate could further enhance walking capacity by reducing reactive oxygen species. The study will monitor inflammation, vascular function, and oxidative capacity to understand the effects on functional ability in PAD patients. This research is crucial for improving physical function and addressing exercise intolerance in PAD.
Interventions
DEVICE
Calf Plantar flexion
Daily passive calf stretching
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Dietary nitrate
Weekday 140 ml dietary nitrate consumption two hours prior to passive stretching
Primary outcome measures
Functional capacity
Time frame: 12-14 weeks
6-minute walking distance will be assessed prior to an at various time points during the 12-week study
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Ankle-brachial index of 0.90 or less Stable condition for at least 3 months
Exclusion criteria
- Habitual exercise or cardiovascular rehabilitation program during the past 3 months Critical limb ischemia, amputation, or leg pain at rest Major surgery or lower extremity revascularization in the last 3 months Heart Failure Kidney disease Beet allergy Crohn's Current smoker
Where
- La Crosse, Wisconsin
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 2, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations