Abstract
Background: Probst et al. (Chest 126: 1102, 2004) reported that, when using a rollator, patients with COPD increased their distance walked in 6 min along with increased oxygen uptake and ventilation. It was difficult to appraise economy (mechanical work to total energy expenditure) because the main determinant of the energy demand, speed, varied between conditions; hence, the authors concluded that rollator use improved distance by increasing ventilatory capacity and/or economy.
Objective: To determine whether walking with a rollator improved the energy economy in patients with COPD. The hypothesis was that oxygen uptake, at the same speed, would be lower (improved economy) when walking with a rollator.
Methods: Subjects completed 2 walks, (with and without a rollator) at individually set and constant speeds. At least 24 h later they repeated the session for a total of 4 walks. Energy expenditure was estimated from measured oxygen uptake using a telemetric system. Since mechanical work was kept constant (speed) during each walk, differences in economy were reflected in differences in energy expenditure in metabolic equivalents (METS).
Results: Ten subjects completed the study. Attainment of a steady state was confirmed during every walk. There was no effect of day (p=0.23) on energy expenditure. There was no significant difference (0.0 [-0.4 to 0.3] METS) in energy expenditure with (3.6 [2.9 to 4.3] METS) or without (3.6 [2.9 to 4.3] METS) the rollator.
Conclusion: Rollator use does not acutely affect walking economy in patients with COPD. A better understanding of how people with COPD benefit from rollator use may facilitate their design and prescription.
- © 2011 ERS
