Improving physical activity in COPD: Towards a new paradigm

Thierry Troosters*, Thys Van Der Molen, Michael Polkey, Roberto A. Rabinovich, Ioannis Vogiatzis, Idelle Weisman, Karoly Kulich

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

121 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a debilitating disease affecting patients in daily life, both physically and emotionally. Symptoms such as dyspnea and muscle fatigue, lead to exercise intolerance, which, together with behavioral issues, trigger physical inactivity, a key feature of COPD. Physical inactivity is associated with adverse clinical outcomes, including hospitalization and all-cause mortality. Increasing activity levels is crucial for effective management strategies and could lead to improved long-term outcomes. In this review we summarize objective and subjective instruments for evaluating physical activity and focus on interventions such as pulmonary rehabilitation or bronchodilators aimed at increasing activity levels. To date, only limited evidence exists to support the effectiveness of these interventions. We suggest that a multimodal approach comprising pulmonary rehabilitation, pharmacotherapy, and counselling programs aimed at addressing emotional and behavioural aspects of COPD may be an effective way to increase physical activity and improve health status in the long term.

Original languageEnglish
Article number115
JournalRespiratory Research
Volume14
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 30 Oct 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Activity monitors
  • Bronchodilators
  • COPD
  • Physical activity
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation

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