The role of physical therapy in managing peripheral artery disease and diabetes

Peripheral artery disease and diabetes mellitus impact millions of adults in the United States and their combined effects are severe, resulting in loss of limb and loss of life. A strong multidisciplinary team is required to comprehensively care for this complicated patient population. As movement specialists, physical therapists are essential members of this team. Many of these patients will benefit from an individualized exercise and mobility prescription for not only disease and wound management but also for safe return to activity once any associated wounds have closed. Specialized care and loading guidance are necessary, especially for the closed but still healing skin. The purpose of this review is to highlight the role of physical therapists as team members in caring for patients with vascular compromise and/or diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, the value added for patient care and outcomes will be emphasized.