An interventional study of Combined respiratory physiotherapy and cardiovascular-strength training program in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Muscle Oxygenation and Exercise, sponsored by University of Extremadura. Not yet recruiting at 1 site in Portugal. Open to participants aged 18 Years and older. Per ClinicalTrials.gov, last updated 2025-05-13.
Sponsored by University of Extremadura · Not applicable, Interventional, and Supportive care
This experimental pre-post intervention study aims to evaluate the effect of a respiratory physiotherapy and combined strength and cardiovascular training program on muscle oxygen saturation and functional capacity in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Oxygenation of the intercostal, quadriceps, and triceps surae muscles will be assessed using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) during standard physical performance tests (6-Minute Walk Test and 30-Second Chair Stand Test). Additional functional parameters and quality of life will be recorded pre- and post-intervention. The results will contribute to optimizing rehabilitation programs and monitoring intensity and progress through muscle oxygenation data.
This experimental pre-post study investigates the effects of a combined respiratory physiotherapy and physical training program on muscle oxygen saturation and functional capacity in patients diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a highly prevalent condition with a progressive impact on functional capacity, muscle performance, and quality of life. It is associated with systemic repercussions, including skeletal muscle dysfunction and oxygen transport limitations, which impair tolerance to physical activity.
The study will evaluate the acute and cumulative effects of a structured, supervised intervention including respiratory physiotherapy techniques, cardiovascular training, and progressive resistance training. Measurements will be taken before and after the intervention period to assess changes in muscle oxygen saturation-measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) devices (Moxy Monitor)-in key muscle groups (intercostal, quadriceps, and triceps surae).
Functional capacity will be assessed using the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and the 30-Second Chair Stand Test (30CST). Additional variables including inspiratory and expiratory pressures, pulmonary function (FEV1/FEV6), heart rate variability, dyspnea, lower limb fatigue, and quality of life (COPD Assessment Test) will also be recorded.
The intervention consists of 20 hospital-based sessions over four weeks (five sessions per week). The protocol is designed to reflect real clinical settings and aims to provide evidence for the feasibility, safety, and functional relevance of combining respiratory and musculoskeletal rehabilitation strategies in COPD patients.
Exclusion Criteria:
Participants will undergo a 4-week combined respiratory physiotherapy and strength-cardio training program, supervised in hospital. Muscle oxygen saturation and functional variables will be measured pre- and post-intervention.
Behavioral: Combined respiratory physiotherapy and cardiovascular-strength training program
20-session supervised hospital-based program including respiratory physiotherapy, aerobic training (guided by Borg scale and HR monitoring), and strength training using progressive loads (based on 1RM). Duration: 4 weeks (5 sessions/week).
Change in muscle oxygen saturation (%)
Measured in intercostal, quadriceps, and triceps surae muscles using NIRS (Moxy Monitor) during 6MWT and 30CST, before and after the 4-week intervention.
Time frame: From baseline to end of intervention (4 weeks)
Distance covered in 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT)
Time frame: From baseline to after the 4-week intervention
Number of repetitions in the 30-Second Chair Stand Test
Time frame: From baseline to after the 4-week intervention
Perceived dyspnea and lower limb fatigue (Borg Scale)
Time frame: From baseline to after the 4-week intervention
Maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (Pimax and Pemax)
Time frame: From baseline to after the 4-week intervention
FEV1/FEV6 ratio (portable COPD Vitalograph)
Time frame: From baseline to after the 4-week intervention
Heart rate variability and max/min heart rate (Polar system + Kubios HRV)
Time frame: From baseline to after the 4-week intervention
Quality of life (COPD Assessment Test - CAT)
Time frame: From baseline to after the 4-week intervention
This study is not yet recruiting, as verified in May 2025. You cannot join it, but the record below documents what was studied.
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University of Extremadura