PAD (Peripheral Artery Disease)
According to the American Heart Association, Peripheral Artery Disease (also called Peripheral Vascular Disease) affects about 8 million Americans, and is due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries of the lower body. The most common early symptom is a painful cramping in the hips, thighs or calves when walking, climbing stairs or exercising. Many people dismiss leg pain as a normal sign of aging. You may think it's arthritis or sciatica or just "stiffness" from getting older. PAD leg pain occurs in the muscles, not the joints. Those with diabetes might confuse PAD pain with a neuropathy, a common diabetic symptom that is a burning or painful discomfort of the feet or thighs. If you're having any kind of recurring pain, talk to your healthcare professional and describe the pain as accurately as you can. The most effective treatment for PAD is regular exercise. You may have to begin slowly, but simple leg exercises three times a week can result in decreased symptoms in just four to eight weeks. The Pedlar® Light Workout Exerciser from Themophore, is a convenient way to begin low-impact exercise, right in your own home. Even patients who are unable to walk or ride a conventional bike can use the Pedlar® to build more stamina. Adjustable resistance, sturdy 16-gauge steel construction and economical price make this product an excellent choice to maintain flexibility, improve cardiovascular function and tone muscles. Fully assembled and easily stored, the Pedlar® exerciser can be used to strengthen muscles and improve cardiovascular function in either arms or legs. Many people with PAD have a decrease in the temperature of their lower leg or foot, sometimes both legs or feet, compared to the rest of their body. According to Michael D. Ezekowitz, M.D., Ph.D., "Poor circulation caused by peripheral vascular disease makes feet more vulnerable to injury and infection and slower to heal. For this reason, it is especially important to take proper care of the feet to avoid complications." Because of decreased sensitivity, it is also important to avoid, or closely monitor, the use of regular heating pads. The Themophore BedWarmer™ provides a safe, easy way to keep your feet and legs warm during the night without the need to heat up the entire bed or raise the thermostat setting in your home. Placed under the bottom sheet, the gentle heat rises to give you cozy warmth right where you need it, for just pennies a day. If you often have problems with cold feet or wake in the morning with stiff, achy feet and legs, our BedWarmer™ could be the answer for you.