Resistance training as a treatment for older persons with peripheral artery disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Objective: Resistance training (RT) improves walking ability in persons with peripheral artery disease. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of RT on peripheral artery disease (as measured by walking ability). Design: We included RCTs that investigated the effect of RT on treadmill and/or 6 min walk (6-MWT) distances. RT intensity was assessed according to the American College of Sports Medicine guidelines by 1 repetition maximum or rating of perceived exertion. Standardised mean (SMD) and mean differences (MD) were calculated using a random-effects inverse variance model. Heterogeneity and bias were assessed using RevMan V.5.3. Meta-regression and meta-analysis of variance were performed as moderator analyses. Data sources: Databases (Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cinahl and Google Scholar) were searched until July 2018. Results: Fifteen trials isolated RT; 7 trials compared RT with aerobic exercise. We analysed 826 patients (n=363 completing RT), with a mean age of 67.1±3.8 years. Training ranged from low-high intensity, 2-7 times per week for 17±7 weeks, with a mix of upper, lower or whole body training. Overall RT significantly improved constant load treadmill claudication onset (COD) (SMD 0.66 [0.40, 0.93],