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Influence of diaphragmatic mobility on exercise tolerance and dyspnea in patients with COPD
E Paulin1, W P S Yamaguti, M C Chammas
1Department of Physical Therapy, Paranaense University, Praça Mascarenhas de Moras s/n, 87502-210 Umuarama, PR, Brazil.
Background:
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) present increased airway resistance, air trapping, pulmonary hyperinflation, and diaphragm muscle alterations, all of which affect pulmonary mechanics.
Purpose:
To evaluate the influence diaphragmatic mobility has on exercise tolerance and dyspnea in patients with COPD.
Materials And Methods:
Fifty-four COPD patients with lung hyperinflation were evaluated to assess pulmonary function, diaphragm mobility, exercise tolerance, and dyspnea (score). Twenty healthy (age- and body mass index-matched) subjects were evaluated as controls.
Results:
The COPD patients presented lower diaphragmatic mobility than did the controls (36.27+/-10.96 mm vs. 46.33+/-9.46 mm). Diaphragmatic mobility presented a linear correlation with distance covered on the 6-min walk test (6MWT) (r=0.38; p=0.005) and a negative correlation with dyspnea (r=-0.36; p=0.007). Patients were then divided into two subgroups based on the degree of diaphragmatic mobility: G1 (
Conclusion:
Diaphragmatic mobility influences dyspnea and exercise tolerance in patients with COPD.
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