Abstract
Introduction and background: Because of the use of accessory respiratory muscles during arm exercises, contributions of ventilation reduces. There is limited study about the effects of upper extremity strength training on activities of daily living (ADL) in patients with COPD
Aim and objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of upper extremity strength training on respiratory muscle strength, ADL and fatigue perception in patients with COPD.
Methods:Seventeen COPD patients (mean FEV1= 45.9±14.6%) were included in the study. Respiratory muscle strength, ADL (ADL simulation test) and fatigue perception (Fatigue Severity Scale-FSS) were evaluated before and after training. Physiologic responses and number of cycles (erasing board, washing dishes, removing weights, inserting and removing lights) completed in 10 min during ADL test were recorded. Strength training was given to patients for 8 weeks.
Results: MIP values and number of cycles in ADL simulation test of patients were significantly increased with training (p=0.045, p=0.001 respectively).Dyspnea perception levels during ADL test and FSS scores were significantly reduced after training (p = 0.021, p=0.026 respectively).
Conclusions:Upper extremity muscle training increases inspiratory muscle strength and positively affects performance during ADLin patients with COPD. This type of training also decreases dyspnea perception during ADL and fatigue perception. Potentially positive effects of upper extremity training should be considered in pulmonary rehabilitation programs of patients who have difficulty because of dyspnea during ADL.
- © 2014 ERS