Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a chronic and progressive condition caused by narrowing or blockage of arteries in the lower limbs due to atherosclerosis. It primarily affects adults over 50, with prevalence increasing with age, and its clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic cases to severe ischemia that may require amputation. Intermittent claudication, characterized by exercise-induced leg pain that resolves with rest, is the most common early symptom. Impaired blood flow, poor vascularization, and muscle loss contribute to reduced lower limb strength and functional capacity, which are associated with higher morbidity and mortality.
Walking exercises is a cornerstone of PAD management, particularly for patients with no or mild symptoms, making the assessment of lower limb strength and mobility essential for designing rehabilitation programs. The 30-second sit-to-stand test is a validated and practical measure of functional capacity and walking ability. Tele-assessment using video technology has been shown to be feasible and reliable in other patient populations. Although tele-rehabilitation has been widely studied and shown to improve functional outcomes, research on tele-assessment methods to accurately evaluate patient performance and the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs is still limited, particularly in PAD patients.
This study aims to examine the reliability of the 30-second sit-to-stand test when performed via tele-assessment compared with face-to-face evaluation in patients with PAD.
Aged between 18 and 65 years
Diagnosed with peripheral artery disease, Fontaine stage I-II, confirmed by peripheral angiography or Doppler ultrasonography
Willingness to participate in the study
Access to a smartphone and the internet
Presence of orthopedic, neurological, or psychological conditions that limit physical activity
Neurological or musculoskeletal disorders affecting standing or walking
History of ischemic amputation
Acute inflammatory condition
Patients diagnosed with peripheral artery disease, aged 18 to 65 years.
Cohort
Cross-sectional
Not listed
Lower Extremity Function
Lower extremity strength and functional mobility will be evaluated using the 30-second sit-to-stand test. Participants will sit on a 44 cm high chair with a backrest and no armrests, arms crossed over the shoulders, and will be instructed to stand and sit as many times as possible within 30 seconds. The number of complete repetitions will be recorded.
Perceived Fatigue Response to 30 Second Sit-to-Stand Test
Perceived fatigue will be measured before, immediately after, and at 3 minutes of recovery following the sit-to-stand test using the Modified Borg Scale.
Dyspnea Response to 30 Second Sit-to-Stand Test
Dyspnea severity will be assessed before, immediately after, and at 3 minutes of recovery following the sit-to-stand test using the Modified Borg Scale.
Heart Rate Response to 30 Second Sit-to-Stand Test
Heart rate will be measured before, immediately after, and at 3 minutes of recovery following the sit-to-stand test using a pulse oximeter.
Blood Pressure
Systolic and diastolic blood pressure will be measured before, immediately after, and at 3 minutes of recovery following the sit-to-stand test.
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