Fat in muscle hastens limb loss, study shows

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New research from the University of Florida reveals that fat accumulation inside muscle tissue may play a critical role in determining limb loss outcomes in peripheral artery disease patients. The study suggests treatment should focus beyond just restoring blood flow, also addressing intramuscular fat. This challenges decades of established treatment approaches for the disease.

For decades, treatment of peripheral artery disease has focused almost exclusively on restoring blood flow. Now, new research from University of Florida scientists suggests that what happens inside the muscle, not just inside the artery, might determine whether patients regain their strength.