Home-based rehabilitation program with superimposed neuromuscular electrical stimulation in stable COPD patients

Introduction: Home-based rehabilitation is a strategy to improve clinical outcomes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), concerning the physical limitations presented by patients to assist to hospitals. Objective: To evaluate the effects on exercise tolerance, and functional independence in stable COPD patients undergoing a home-based rehabilitation program. Methods: Randomized controlled trial. Control group received standard medical treatment. Intervention group underwent additionally a home-based individualized rehabilitation program for 8 weeks (2h/wk), including controlled breathing, Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) superimposed onto voluntary muscular contraction and exercises with elastic bands and relaxation. Exercise tolerance and functional independence were assessed. Results: 32 patients were included, mean age was of 68,97±5,14 years. No significant differences were found between the groups at baseline. Conclusions: The home-based rehabilitation program improves significantly exercise tolerance and functional independence in stable COPD patients.