Rutherford Regional Health System Launches Supervised Exercise Therapy Program for Peripheral Artery Disease

Rutherfordton, NC (September 2024) — Rutherford Regional Health System is pleased to announce the launch of its new Supervised Exercise Therapy (SET) program, designed to assist patients suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD). The SET program offers a non-invasive treatment option aimed at reducing symptoms and improving the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with PAD.

Supervised Exercise Therapy (SET) is recommended as the initial treatment for patients suffering from intermittent pain or discomfort while walking or standing. It is an effective intervention that reduces lower extremity symptoms and improves functional status and quality of life. SET involves intermittent walking exercise, alternating periods of walking, and rest for patients experiencing moderate-to-maximum claudication.

“SET is an evidence-based approach that has been shown to improve functional status and reduce lower extremity symptoms in patients with PAD,” said Randy Carlile, Clinical Exercise Physiologist at Rutherford Regional Health System. “Our program is designed to help patients manage their condition effectively, without the need for surgical intervention.”

One of the first patients to participate in the SET program is Perry Ledford, who completed the program after being diagnosed with PAD earlier this year. Mr. Ledford’s healthcare journey began when he sought care for a separate health concern and was referred for an ultrasound, which revealed blockages in his legs. Presented with the option of stent placement or participation in the SET program, Mr. Ledford chose the non-invasive therapy available through Rutherford Regional’s Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Center.

“The SET program at Rutherford Regional has greatly improved my health. It is the only reason that I am walking better today,” said Ledford, reflecting on his successful completion of the program.

Mr. Ledford attended the program three times a week for 12 weeks, and experienced significant improvements in mobility and overall health.

Lower extremity peripheral artery disease is the third leading cause of atherosclerotic vascular morbidity after coronary heart disease and stroke. It is estimated that over 200 million people worldwide and 8.5 million Americans over the age of 40 have PAD[i].  According to the American Heart Association, peripheral artery disease can result in amputation of the leg or foot, as well as heart attack and stroke if left untreated[ii].

Rutherford Regional Health System’s Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Center is certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. This certification recognizes Rutherford Regional as a leader in cardiovascular rehab and highlights its commitment to improving the quality of life of patients by enhancing standards of care.

As Perry continues his walks beyond the walls of Rutherford Regional Health System. He plans to stay active and maintain the healthy habits he's developed by walking at local trials like Broadriver Greenway and Cowpens Battle Ground. "If I can do it, so can they," Perry said with conviction. "It's about taking it one step at a time and pushing yourself for the results."

To learn more about our services at the Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab, visit our website at MyRutherfordRegional.com/heart-and-vascular/cardiac-rehabilitation or call 828.286.5053.

[i] American College of Cardiology (2020, September 9). Supervised Exercise Therapy For Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease. Retrieved August 7, 2024, from https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/articles/2020/09/01/01/42/supervised-exercise-therapy-for-patients-with-

peripheral-artery-disease-supervised-exercise-therapy-for-patients-with-peripheral-artery-disease

[ii] American Heart Association Prevention and Treatment of PAD (2024)