Hypoxic Exercise in Lower Extremity Artery Disease

Exercise Training Under Hypoxic Conditions in Lower Extremity Artery Disease

The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to:

Phase I: To explore, in a first pilot phase, the adequate combination of hypoxia severity and exercise intensity in patients with symptomatic lower extremity artery disease (LEAD). Acute walking performances and physiological responses (vascular and muscular) to a normobaric hypoxic exercise performed will be assessed at two different altitudes (1500 m and 2500 m).

The results of this first phase will then be used to determine the optimal hypoxic level for the exercise training program which will be assessed during the Phase II.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with symptomatic LEAD (Fontaine stage ≥ IIa)
• ABI ≤ 0.9
• TBI ≤ 0.6 if incompressible arteries (diabetes and renal insufficiency)
• Signed written informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Neurological and neuromuscular disorders which can limit balance and walking
• Any history of altitude-related sickness
• Any health risks (assessed during clinical history) linked to hypoxia exposure
• Acclimatization or exposure to hypoxia of more than 2000 m for more than 48 h during a period of 6 months before the study
• Medication required for the treatment of migraines, claustrophobia that may interfere with the interpretation of the results
• Obstructive sleep apnea (> 25 Apnea-Hypopnea Index)
• Prior leg/foot amputation
• Pregnant women
• Cardiac contraindication to exercise