Efficacy of an 8-Week Structured Exercise Program on Pulmonary Function and Functional Capacity in Patients with Moderate COPD: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) imposes a significant burden on functional capacity and quality of life. While pulmonary rehabilitation is a cornerstone of management, the efficacy of standardized, supervised exercise programs for moderate-stage COPD warrants further robust investigation.

Objective: This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of an 8-week supervised exercise program on pulmonary function and respiratory efficiency in patients with moderate-stage COPD.

Methods: Twenty-six patients (age 40-75 years; smoking history ≥10 pack-years) with moderate (GOLD Stage II) COPD were randomized to an intervention group (n=13) that underwent a bi-weekly, 60-minute regimen of respiratory muscle training and aerobic conditioning, or a control group (n=13) that received standard medical care alone. Primary outcomes were Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV₁), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), the FEV₁/FVC ratio, and respiratory rate.

Results: Post-intervention analysis revealed statistically significant between-group improvements. The intervention group demonstrated a 26.32% reduction in respiratory rate (p<0.025), a 12.02% increase in FEV₁ (p<0.025), and a 36.24% increase in FVC (p<0.025). The FEV₁/FVC ratio did not change significantly.

Conclusion: In presented work, the structured exercise intervention constitutes a potent, non-pharmacological strategy for improving pulmonary function in moderate COPD. These findings underscore the imperative to integrate tailored physical rehabilitation into standard clinical management protocols to optimize functional outcomes.