Effect of physical exercise on functional capacity and dyspnea in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Functional capacity is significantly impaired in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as they tend to lead a less active lifestyle compared to healthy controls. Physical activity offers several benefits for COPD patients, including a reduction in mortality risk, fewer hospitalizations due to illness, and improved functional capacity. Objective: To review the effects of physical exercise on the functional capacity of COPD patients. Methods: The databases PubMed, Web of Science, OVID, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, and Scientific Electronic Library Online were searched without language restrictions. Randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of physical exercise on COPD patients were included. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were conducted independently. RevMan software (version 5.3) was used for the meta-analysis. Results: Five studies were identified from the database search. Compared to the control group, the 6-min walking distance improved in the experimental group (mean difference [MD]: 43.12 m; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.70 - 86.94). Notably, Borg scale scores (MD: −0.24 points; 95% CI: −0.72 - 0.25) did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusion: Exercise may improve the functional capacity of patients with COPD. Relevance for patients: Exercise interventions may enhance walking ability in COPD patients, potentially improving daily function and quality of life.

Keywords

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease / Dyspnea / Exercise capacity / Pulmonary rehabilitation

Funding

None.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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