Got PAD? Walking helps.

Many people with peripheral artery disease avoid walking because it may cause pain.

But, in a recent study, patients who had two in-person sessions and two phone sessions with physical therapists to encourage walking over three months walked 18 yards farther over 6 minutes than those who got usual care.

What to do

If you have PAD, look for a program with a goal of walking at least 30 to 45 minutes at least three days a week.