A study to test a home walking programme for people living with peripheral artery disease
Peripheral artery disease occurs when blood vessels in the legs become narrow, reducing blood flow. This often leads to leg aches or cramping when walking, known as intermittent claudication. Regular walking is the best way to ease these symptoms, but pushing through leg pain alone can be very difficult. The MOSAIC2 study looks at a three-month home walking programme. Patients receive guidance and encouragement from trained healthcare professionals based at their local GP practice or community clinic. Researchers want to see if delivering this support locally is practical and good value for the NHS before setting up a larger national trial. Taking part involves a personalised walking routine, simple walking checks, activity tracking at home, and completing health questionnaires. The goal is to help people build walking confidence and stay active safely.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is common, affecting around one in five older adults. It happens when the arteries carrying blood to your legs become narrowed. Because muscles receive less oxygen during exercise, people often experience cramping, tightness, or aching in their calves, thighs, or buttocks when walking. Although walking regularly is proven to help rebuild circulation and reduce pain, managing it on your own can feel daunting.
An earlier hospital-based study called MOSAIC1 showed that structured walking advice and coaching from physiotherapists helped people walk further and feel more confident. Researchers have now developed MOSAIC2. This version is designed to be delivered closer to home through local GP practices and community health services by various trained healthcare professionals.
This current project is a feasibility study. This means researchers are testing whether the programme can be run smoothly in everyday community settings across England, Scotland, and Wales. The findings will help ensure the programme works well for patients and staff before it is tested in a much larger NHS study.
Key takeaways
- Tests a supported, three-month home walking programme for people with peripheral artery disease.
- Aimed at adults aged 50 and over who get leg pain or cramping when walking.
- Delivered through local GP practices and community health clinics across England, Scotland, and Wales.
- Involves step tracking at home, walking checks, and health questionnaires.
- Designed to see if local walking support is practical and cost-effective for the NHS.
Who may be eligible?
You may be able to join this study if you are 50 years of age or older and have a confirmed diagnosis of peripheral artery disease. You should also experience typical leg pain or cramping when you walk, and have a good enough grasp of English to talk through the programme with healthcare staff.
This study is not suitable for people who cannot walk, use a wheelchair, or have severe circulation problems such as foot ulcers or critical limb ischaemia. You will also be unable to take part if you have had frequent falls (more than three in the past year) or recent heart problems, such as a heart attack, new chest pain, or heart surgery in the last three months.
Finally, anyone who has had major leg or joint surgery in the last three months, or has an operation planned in the next six months that would affect their walking, will not be able to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am aged 50 or over.
- My doctor has diagnosed me with peripheral artery disease (PAD).
- I get cramp, ache, or tightness in my legs when I walk.
- I am able to walk and do not use a wheelchair full-time.
- I do not have active foot ulcers or severe, sudden leg circulation problems.
- I have not had a heart attack, new chest pain, or heart surgery in the last three months.
What does participation involve?
If you take part, your involvement will last around three to four months. You will follow a three-month home walking plan tailored to your personal fitness level, with regular support sessions from a trained healthcare professional at your GP surgery or community clinic. Before starting and after finishing the programme, you will complete simple walking and mobility checks, fill out health questionnaires, and wear a small activity tracker at home to measure your daily steps. There are no new medications to take. Some participants may also be invited to share their thoughts and feedback in an interview to help improve the programme.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (4)
- Market Harborough Med.ctrApproximateMarket Harborough, England
- Leeds Community Child and Adolescent Mental Health ServicesCity onlyLeeds, England
- The Valleys Medical PartnershipCity onlySheffield, England
- Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyBodmin, England
Common questions
Do I need to take any new medicines for this study?
No. The study focuses entirely on walking exercise, guidance, and support. It does not involve testing any new medications.
Where will the walking take place?
You will do your walking at home or around your local neighbourhood at times that suit your daily routine.
Will I have to walk through severe pain?
No. Your healthcare professional will help you find a comfortable pace and show you how to take planned rests so you can manage your symptoms safely.
How long does the study last?
The supported walking programme lasts for three months, with short health checks before you start and after you finish.
What happens if I change my mind?
You can leave the study at any point. Your decision will not affect the standard of medical care you receive from your GP or the NHS.
How to find out more
Claire Smith
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.