The effect of short-term pulmonary rehabilitation on the exercise ability and life quality of male patients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective:To investigate the effects of short-term pulmonary rehabilitation on the exercise ability and life quality of men with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Methods:Thirty-eight male COPD patients with acute exacerbation were selected and randomly divided into a rehabilitation group ( n=20) and a control group ( n=18). Both groups were given routine health education and medication, while the rehabilitation group was additionally provided with a 7-day, three-stage rehabilitation intervention, including the respiratory training, resistance training using a resistance band and gradual low-intensity walking training, all under remote electrocardiographic monitoring. Before and after the intervention, both groups′ exercise ability was evaluated using the 30-second chair sitting test (30-STS) and a 30-second forearm load flexion test (30-ACT). Each subject′s quality of life and ability in the activities of daily living were evaluated by two qualified rehabilitation therapists. The subjects′ level of daily physical activity was assessed 2 months after discharge. Results:After the intervention the average 30-STS and 30-ACT results of the rehabilitation group had improved significantly. The 30-ACT results of the control group were also significantly improved. After the intervention the average 30-STS and 30-ACT results of the rehabilitation group were significantly better than the control group′s averages. The average CAT and MBI scores of both groups were significantly better after the intervention, with the rehabilitation group′s averages significantly better than those of the control group. Two months after discharge, the number of patients with at least moderate daily physical activity increased from 6 to 19 in the rehabilitation group and from 4 to in the control group, a significant difference between the two groups.Conclusion:The three-stage pulmonary rehabilitation program is helpful for improving the exercise ability and quality of life of COPD sufferers, and their ability in the activities of daily living. Their level of daily physical activity is higher 2 months after discharge.