Collateral Circulation

Regular aerobic exercise promotes angiogenesis and supports the collateral circulation compromised by coronary artery disease. When a coronary artery becomes obstructed, the body compensates by growing collateral arteries that branch around the blockage to maintain blood supply to the heart. Coronary artery disease causes arterial walls to thicken and elevates oxidative stress throughout the vascular system. Chronic insufficient blood flow impairs the body's ability to maintain and expand its collateral arterial network.