Effect of upper extremity strength training on functional arm and submaximal exercise capacity, fatigue severity and health-related quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Background and Aim: There is limited study in the literature about the effects of arm strength training exercise capacity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this trial was to investigate the effects of arm strength training on functional arm and submaximal exercise capacity, fatigue severity and health-related quality of life in patients with COPD. Methods: Nineteen clinically stable GOLD stage II-III COPD patients were included in the study. Upper extremity muscle strength training was given at 40-50 % of one repetition maximum, 3 sets/session, 3 days/week with 8-12 repetetions loading for 8 weeks. Hand grip strength (Jamar dynamometer), unsupported functional arm exercise capacity (6 minute pegboard and ring test-6PRT), functional submaximal exercise capacity (6 minute walk test-6MWT), fatigue severity (Fatigue Severity Scale-FSS) and health-related quality of life (St George Respiratory Questionnare-SGRQ) were evaluated before and after training. Results: After training, hand grip strength was significantly increased after training (p=0.047) whereas FSS scores (p=0.013) and SGRQ-impact score (p=0.044) of patients were significantly decreased. But, number of rings moved during 6PRT and 6MWT distance didn’t change after the treatment (p>0.05). Conclusions: Upper extremity muscle training administered alone increases peripheral muscle strength and health-related quality of life, decreases fatigue severity in daily life in patients with COPD. But arm strength training could only preserve arm exercise endurance and functional exercise capacity.