Warm baths may boost walking ability in PAD patients

NCT ID NCT03900832

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether sitting in a warm bath (38-41°C) for up to 30 minutes could reduce blood pressure spikes during exercise in 33 people with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Participants walked on a treadmill, and researchers measured walking time, blood pressure, and heart rate. The goal was to see if heat exposure makes exercise easier by calming the body's stress response.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

warm bath (water at 38-41°C)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a simple, drug-free way to improve exercise tolerance in people with PAD.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small study (33 people) testing a short-term effect. The results may not apply to all PAD patients or lead to a lasting treatment.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Motor Activity peripheral arterial disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

    Hershey, Pennsylvania, 17033, United States