NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating a new exercise program for patients with peripheral artery disease

Official title: The effects of a novel, non-ischemic and pain-free exercise intervention in peripheral artery disease

Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10904669 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new exercise program called Non-IsChemic Exercise (NICE) for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) to see if it can help them walk better and feel healthier without causing pain, compared to a regular exercise program that might hurt.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project startAugust 15, 2023
Project endJuly 31, 2028
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$465,354
NIH project number5R01AG071778-02
Project IDNIH-10904669 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who have been diagnosed with peripheral artery disease.

Less likely to help

Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have peripheral artery disease may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on a novel exercise intervention called Non-IsChemic Exercise (NICE) designed specifically for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). The program aims to improve walking ability, quality of life, and vascular health without causing pain or ischemia, which are common issues with traditional exercise methods. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the NICE program or a standard painful exercise program, allowing researchers to compare the outcomes in terms of ambulation and health-related quality of life. The study will also explore changes in microvascular function and systemic biomarkers associated with these exercise interventions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and pain-free exercise option for patients with peripheral artery disease, enhancing their mobility and overall quality of life.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with non-painful exercise interventions in similar patient populations, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
    Oklahoma City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gardner, Andrew W — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Gardner, Andrew W

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.