Using light therapy to enhance exercise for better mobility in older adults with peripheral artery disease.
Official title: ENhancing exercise with LIGHT to improve functioning in PAD: the ENLIGHTEN PAD Trial
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10851012 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether using special red light therapy before walking exercises can help older adults with peripheral artery disease walk longer and feel better, making it easier for them to stay active at home.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $207,692 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG081627-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10851012 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with peripheral artery disease who experience walking difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have peripheral artery disease or those who are unable to participate in walking exercises may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of 670 nm light therapy to improve the effectiveness of walking exercises for older adults suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD). The study aims to determine if administering light therapy before exercise can help increase the duration and intensity of walking, thereby enhancing overall mobility and reducing symptoms. Participants will engage in home-based walking exercises, with some receiving light therapy to see if it improves their exercise adherence and outcomes. The approach focuses on leveraging the body's natural signaling mechanisms to improve blood flow and muscle function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve mobility and quality of life for patients with peripheral artery disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with light therapy in enhancing exercise outcomes, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdermott, Mary Mcgrae — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mcdermott, Mary Mcgrae
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.