Satisfaction and Adherence of COPD Patients to a Conventional Training Associated with Functional Exercises and to a Conventional Training Isolated: A Qualiquantitative Study

PURPOSE

To verify, through quali-quantitative analysis, the satisfaction and adherence of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to the insertion of functional circuit training into conventional training.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

23 patients with COPD from a randomized clinical trial were invited to participate in a quali-quantitative analysis after the training finalization, divided into FTG (Functional Training Group) and CTG (Conventional Training Group). A total of 21 patients participated [(FTG: n=10; 65.80±7.31 years; FEV₁/FVC: 56.44±12.67%) and CTG (n=11; 70.36±7.02 years; FEV₁/FVC: 55.89±8.20)]. For the qualitative evaluation, focus groups were performed, using a previously developed script. Adherence was verified by the presence in the training sessions that were prescribed, and the quantitative analysis was performed using questionnaires with multiple-choice questions (evaluation of the aspects that can interfere in a training). The participants were asked to define a grade between zero and ten regarding the aspects of the training (satisfaction).

RESULTS

In both groups, there was similar adherence (p=0.965) and satisfaction (p=0.341). The qualitative analysis identified seven themes and 17 codes, representing factors related to satisfaction and negative aspects, as follows: factors associated with satisfaction: self-efficacy management, physical and psychosocial improvement, interpersonal relationships, and proposed exercises. Negative aspects: pains, comorbidities, beliefs, and personal demotivation. In the quantitative analysis, was verified that an increase in the symptoms, the distance between home and training center, and personal problems were not factors that interfered in the adherence of the participants (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Similar satisfaction and adherence of patients with COPD were observed in the FTG and CTG and patients from FTG reported higher fatigue.

Mucociliary Clearance of Different Respiratory Conditions: A Clinical Study

Introduction  Mucociliary clearance (MCC) is the first line of defense of the pulmonary system. Mucociliary clearance impairment may lead to increased risk of respiratory infections, lung injury, pulmonary repair problems, chronic dysfunctions and progression of respiratory diseases. Objective  To characterize the MCC of active and passive smokers and individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and compare the MCC behaviors between men and women of different age groups. Methods  Patients with COPD (current smokers and ex-smokers) and apparently healthy individuals (current smokers, passive smokers and nonsmokers) were evaluated. All of the subjects underwent lung function and MCC evaluation (saccharin transport test [STT]). Smokers (with or without COPD) were questioned about the smoking history. Results  A total of 418 individuals aged 16 to 82 years old, of both genders, were evaluated. The STT values of active and passive smokers were statistically higher than those of the control group ( p  < 0.01). Men of the control group had lower values of STT than active smokers (9.7 ± 7.1 and 15.4 ± 10.1 minute, respectively, p  < 0.01). In addition, higher MCC velocity was observed in women that are current smokers (11.7 ± 6.8 minute) compared with men (15.4 ± 10.1 minute) in this group ( p  = 0.01). Among the younger age groups (< 50 years old), only passive smokers presented higher STT in relation to the control group. Conclusion  Passive and active smoking are factors that influence negatively the MCC, and passive smokers may present losses of this mechanism at a younger age. Additionally, male smokers present worse MCC than male nonsmokers.

Systemic Cytokine Profiles of CD4+ T Lymphocytes Correlate with Clinical Features and Functional Status in Stable COPD

Aims

To evaluate the expressions of intracellular cytokines in CD4+ T lymphocytes and to investigate the correlation between biomarker expressions and clinical and functional characteristics of stable COPD patients.

Patients and Methods

Peripheral blood was collected from 36 COPD patients, and the expression of cytokines (IL-8, IL-13, IL-17, IL-6, IL-2, IL-10, and TNF-α) in T lymphocytes CD4 + was investigated. In addition, lung function, dyspnea symptoms, quality of life, vital signs, body composition, level of physical activity, peripheral muscle strength, and functional capacity were assessed.

Results

Individuals with greater bronchial obstruction present a higher proportion of CD4 + IL-2 + lymphocytes compared to individuals with less severe bronchial obstruction. We found a positive correlation between the expression of the cytokines IL-13, IL-17, IL-6, IL-2, IL-10, and TNF-α in CD4+ T lymphocytes. In addition, we found a positive correlation between CD4+ IL-10+ T lymphocytes and lower limb muscle strength and a negative correlation between CD4+ IL-8+ T lymphocytes and peripheral oxygen saturation and steps per day.

Conclusion

Systemic CD4+IL-2+, IL-8+, and IL-10+ T lymphocytes presented a correlation with clinical characteristics and functional status in stable COPD.

Body image in COPD and its relation with physical activity levels, lung function and body composition: An observational study

INTRODUCTION

Body image has been previously defined as the mental figure we have of the contours and shape of our body; and the feelings concerning these characteristics. A change in body perception can influence one's feelings of self-worth and compromise functional abilities. Thus, the detection of distortions in body image could be important data for clinical evaluation of subjects with COPD.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the body image perception of subjects with COPD. Also, to investigate the association between body image and levels of physical activity in these subjects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

109 subjects were recruited and divided into the COPD group and control subjects without any pulmonary conditions. For this cross-sectional study, we performed an initial evaluation and participants were evaluated regarding physical activity level, body image (silhouette scale) and determination of body mass index (BMI). Finally, we performed the evaluation of lung function (spirometry) and body composition analysis (bioelectrical impedance).

RESULTS

BothCOPD and control subjects presented alterations in body image. Both groups desired significantly lower BMI and weight measures, according to the silhouette scale, demonstrating body dissatisfaction (P < .05). No differences in the level body dissatisfaction were found between Control and COPD groups (P > .05). No associations between physical activity levels and body image were observed (P > .05; r = -0.24 to 0.14).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, patients with COPD present significant body dissatisfaction, similar to control individuals. Furthermore, body image perception in COPD is related to body composition measurements but not to physical activity levels.

Resistance training using different elastic components offers similar gains on muscle strength to weight machine equipment in Individuals with COPD: A randomized controlled trial

Purpose: To compare the effects of three modalities of resistance training, two using elastic components and one using conventional weight machine on peripheral muscle strength in Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Effects on exercise capacity, impact of disease on health status, body composition and daily level of physical activity were investigated as secondary endpoints.Methods: Forty-eight participants were randomly allocated (Trials Registry #RBR-6V9SJJ) into Elastic band group (Theraband®) (EBG), Elastic tubes training using Lemgruber® (ETG), and Conventional training with weight machine equipment (CG). Participants were evaluated before and after 12 weeks of training regarding peripheral muscle strength by dynamometry; impact of disease on health status via COPD Assessment Test, CAT; exercise capacity by 6-min walk test, 6MWT; body composition by bioelectrical impedance; and daily level of physical activities via accelerometry.Results: Inter-group comparison of training effects did not elucidate significant differences between the modalities in muscle strength (p ≥ .2). Likewise, all training modalities showed similar effects on CAT, body composition and daily physical activity variables with no statistical significance observed (p ≥ .15).Conclusions: Modalities of resistance training using elastic components presented similar effects on muscle strength, health status, exercise capacity, body composition and daily level of physical activity in individuals with COPD. The effects of elastic resistance were similar to conventional resistance training.

Effects of combining functional exercises with exercise training on daily physical activities and functionality in patients with COPD: a protocol for a randomized clinical trial

Introduction

Functional training has been shown to be a viable alternative for the elderly and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, whether the combination of this type of training with aerobic and resistance training, commonly performed in pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) programs, induces more pronounced effects on daily physical activities and functionality remains unclear. The aims of the study will be to evaluate the short-term and sustained effects of the combination of a functional circuit program with a training program consisting of aerobic and resistance exercise.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, patients with COPD will be randomly assigned (1:1:1) to an 8-week training program to follow one of the three a priori defined groups: (I) resistance and aerobic and functional exercises, (II) a conventional program including only resistance and aerobic exercises, or (III) a usual care program. Patients will be evaluated before and upon completion of 8 weeks of training regarding physical activity in daily life (PADL) using an activity monitor (accelerometer), activities of daily living (London Chest Activity of Daily Living), functional exercise capacity (6-minute walk test), and muscle strength (dynamometry). Additionally, the sustained effects of the interventions will be evaluated 22 weeks after commencing the study.

Discussion

The inclusion of a protocol of functional physical training in the training conventionally performed by patients with COPD as an alternative to increase PADL and functionality may provide subsidies for the treatment of these patients, representing an advance and impacting on the physical training of patients with COPD.

Trial registration

Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBEC) ID: RBR-3zmh3r. Registered: March 7, 2018.

The perceptions of physical therapists about facilitators and challenges in the use of different tools for resistance training in COPD patients: a mixed-method study

ABSTRACT This study sought to quantify and qualitatively analyze the perception of physical therapists about facilitators and the challenges in the use of different types of tools for resistance training in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. This was a mixed-model study with qualitative analysis developed in a rehabilitation center. Six physical therapists who performed a randomized clinical trial were interviewed. The protocol consisted of the evaluation of three types of resistance training: elastic tubes, elastic bands, and training with conventional weight machines. After completion of the randomized trial, therapists were invited to participate in a focus group to collect qualitative data. Physical therapists also answered a quantitative questionnaire containing closed questions. The main outcome measures were the opinion of physical therapists about the advantages and disadvantages in clinical practice of each of the analyzed tools. The focus group analysis resulted in eight themes: Insecurities regarding load and handling tools, implementation of home-based treatment, improvements of tools, advantages and disadvantages of tools, incidence of injuries with elastic tools, patient’s preferences, and particularities of the tools. Physical therapists pointed out different challenges and facilitators for resistance training. Characteristics of the tools such as costs, portability, handling and practicality were cited as factors that influence clinical practice. In the quantitative analysis, no differences were observed when comparing the scores of each instrument. The three tools analyzed are applicable and feasible in the clinical practice of physical therapists; moreover, they present different characteristics and particularities that should be considered, such as cost, clinical applicability, portability and perception of the patient and therapists.

Critical Velocity Determined by a Non-Exhaustive Method in Subjects With COPD

BACKGROUND

Exercise training is an effective and low-cost tool for COPD rehabilitation. Thus, validating a non-exhaustive method to determine a patient's anaerobic threshold would be a very interesting tool in practical settings. We aimed to test the reproducibility of critical velocity values determined in a non-exhaustive manner (CV_NE) and tolerance for exercise performed at this physiological marker in subjects with COPD.

METHODS

Twelve subjects with COPD were evaluated in this cross-sectional study. The study was divided into 2 phases: Phase A consisted of reproducibility of CV_NE for subjects with COPD, and Phase B determined the tolerance for exercise tests performed at this physiological marker.

RESULTS

The proposed protocol for determining CV_NE presented fair reproducibility according to blood lactate concentrations (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.58). However, we cannot consider that the tests were reproducible due to the wide CI (0.03-0.85). Furthermore, moderate and strong correlations were observed between the CV_NE determined by lactate concentration, by oxygen consumption (V̇_O2 ) (r = 0.66), and by heart rate (r = 0.88). However, a high limit of agreement was observed ±1.45 km/h and ±1.55 km/h, respectively. In the tolerance for exercise test, none of the subjects presented lactate destabilization, whereas 3 tests were interrupted by oxygen saturation decline and 1 test was interrupted by hemodynamic instability.

CONCLUSIONS

Although most of the subjects presented good tolerance for exercise at CV_NE, fair levels of reproducibility were observed in subjects with COPD, even using lactate. Thus, the use of CV_NE determined through double 3-min efforts should be considered with caution.

Qualidade de vida de tabagistas e sua correlação com a carga tabagística

RESUMO O tabagismo é considerado uma doença crônica e uma das principais causas de mortes evitáveis no mundo. A qualidade de vida é uma importante medida de impacto na saúde e em sua relação com os níveis de dependência de nicotina e de carga tabagística, os quais ainda não estão totalmente esclarecidos. Avaliou-se a qualidade de vida de tabagistas e sua correlação com a carga tabagística e com o nível de dependência nicotínica. Foram inclusos, neste estudo, tabagistas de ambos os sexos e sem doenças clínicas diagnosticadas. Posteriormente, foi realizada avaliação da qualidade de vida e nível de dependência nicotínica por meio de questionários. A amostra foi constituída por 48 indivíduos. Houve correlação negativa entre a vitalidade e a quantidade de anos em que estes indivíduos fumaram (p=0,009; r=-0,27), assim como o estado geral de saúde e anos/maço (p=0,02; r=-0,23) e quantidade de cigarros consumidos por dia atualmente (p=0,006; r=-0,29). É possível observar correlação negativa entre capacidade funcional e a pontuação do questionário de Fagerström (p=0,004; r=-0,3). Concluiu-se que a carga tabagística e o grau de dependência de nicotina apresentaram relação com piores índices de qualidade de vida da população tabagista.

Nasal mucociliary transportability of male and female smokers

Introduction

Female smoker's present increased susceptibility to several diseases when compared to the opposite gender. However, there are no studies showing differences in nasal mucociliary transport behavior between male and female smokers.

Objective

To compare the nasal mucociliary transportability in male and female smokers and non-smokers, taking into consideration age, anthropometric data, smoking load and pulmonary function.

Methods

The analysis included 139 individuals (33 men and 37 women smokers and 32 men and 37 women non-smokers). All participants answered an initial interview to obtain personal data and smoking load. Anthropometric data and carbon monoxide in the exhaled air were assessed. Individuals also performed pulmonary function test and Saccharin Transit Time test. To compare saccharin transit time values between men and women, smokers and non-smokers, stratification of all independent variables was performed (sociodemographic, smoking and respiratory variables) into two categories: below and above the median values.

Results

There was no difference between men and women, smokers and non-smokers, regarding nasal mucociliary transportability. Significant differences were only observed between non-smokers. Among those with less forced vital capacity values (<97.37% of predicted), women presented mucociliary transport faster than men. Moreover, it was observed influence of BMI and COex (women smokers), FCV and FEV1 (men non-smokers) and FEF_25–75% (women non-smokers) on saccharin transit time values.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this study, nasal mucociliary transport in male and female adult smokers, apparently healthy, are similar.