McNamara et al (2011) Water-based exercise in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Summary: Water-Based Exercise in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Background and Objective
Water-based exercise, traditionally used for various health conditions, was once considered detrimental for individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) due to concerns about respiratory system effects. Recent research, however, suggests that water-based exercise, including head-out-of-water immersion (HOWI), can safely improve exercise capacity and quality of life in COPD patients.
COPD and Water-Based Exercise
COPD patients often face challenges in traditional land-based exercise programs due to age-related co-morbidities or physical limitations. Water-based exercise offers an emerging alternative, allowing safer and more accessible training for these individuals.
Methods and Results
The review involved searching major databases for relevant studies, focusing on randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials involving COPD patients. Five key papers were identified, covering the effects of water-based exercise and its physiological impact. One significant study demonstrated that water-based exercise led to better walking endurance and quality of life improvements compared to land-based exercise. However, results across studies were not consistently positive, suggesting the need for further investigation.
Physiological Effects
In healthy subjects, water immersion affects respiratory and cardiac systems, often reducing lung volumes and altering heart rate responses. One study on COPD patients showed no significant differences in heart rate, breathing frequency, or oxygen saturation during water-based exercise, indicating safety in water immersion despite lung function restrictions.
Limitations and Future Directions
The review highlighted several limitations, including a small number of studies, lack of long-term follow-up, and varied intervention programs. Future research should involve high-quality randomized controlled trials to more conclusively determine the benefits of water-based exercise in COPD. It should also explore optimal water depths, exercise intensities, and environmental factors like air and water temperature, which can influence the effectiveness of water-based exercises.
Keyphrase: Water-Based Exercise in COPD
Important Keywords: COPD, water-based exercise, HOWI, exercise capacity, quality of life, randomized controlled trials, pulmonary rehabilitation, hydrotherapy, respiratory function, physical therapy.
