Statins and walking
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The Impact of Statins on Walking and Mobility
Statins and Lower-Extremity Functioning
Improved Walking Performance in Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Patients
Statin use has been shown to significantly enhance lower-extremity functioning in patients with and without peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Research indicates that individuals taking statins exhibit better performance in the 6-minute walk test, faster walking velocity, and higher summary performance scores compared to non-users. These improvements are independent of cholesterol levels and other potential confounders, suggesting that the benefits of statins extend beyond their lipid-lowering properties.
Reduced Functional Decline Over Time
In a longitudinal study, PAD patients on statins experienced less annual decline in walking velocity and 6-minute walk performance compared to those not on statins. This suggests that statins may help maintain lower-extremity function over time, potentially slowing the progression of mobility impairments in PAD patients.
Statins and Exercise Programs in Older Adults
Benefits in Structured Physical Activity Programs
Older adults, including those on statins, can benefit from structured physical activity programs. A study involving sedentary older adults found that both statin users and non-users experienced reduced risk of major mobility disability when participating in a moderate-intensity physical activity program. This indicates that statins do not hinder the benefits of exercise and that older adults on statins can safely engage in physical activity to improve mobility.
Statins and Pulmonary Hypertension
Mixed Results in Pulmonary Hypertension Patients
The effects of statins on walking performance in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) are less clear. Some studies suggest that statins can improve the 6-minute walk distance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and PH, while others find no significant benefits. Meta-analyses have shown mixed results, with some indicating improvements in walking distance and pulmonary artery pressure, and others showing no significant effects .
Conclusion
Overall, statins appear to offer significant benefits for walking performance and lower-extremity functioning, particularly in patients with PAD. They also do not impede the positive effects of physical activity programs in older adults. However, the benefits of statins in patients with pulmonary hypertension remain inconclusive, warranting further research. For individuals on statins, engaging in regular physical activity remains a beneficial strategy to enhance mobility and overall health.
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