Final answer:
Supervised exercise therapy is the first-line recommendation for patients with intermittent claudication, improving muscle efficiency and promoting collateral circulation. Starting with low-intensity exercises and progressively increasing intensity can enhance life quality before considering invasive treatments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Supervised exercise therapy should be the initial recommendation for patients with intermittent claudication. This condition is a manifestation of peripheral artery disease (PAD), where arteries that supply blood to the limbs are partially occluded. When patients with intermittent claudication engage in exercise, although there may be discomfort, regular physical activity can improve the efficiency of their muscles in using oxygen and promote the development of collateral blood vessels.
Exercise plays a crucial role in managing symptoms, as it increases the ability of the muscles to function even with limited blood flow. Patients should start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase intensity under medical supervision. This non-invasive approach can significantly enhance quality of life and is often considered frontline therapy before more invasive procedures are considered.