The Association of Conventional Therapy Associated with Somatosensory Interactive Game Enhances the Effects of Early Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Patients with Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial

<b><i>Objective:</i></b> This study aimed to evaluate the effect of somatosensory interactive games in combination with pulmonary rehabilitation programs (PRPs) on exercise tolerance, balance function, pulmonary function, inflammatory markers, and healthcare utilization in individuals with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease over 12 months. <b><i>Design:</i></b> In a randomized controlled trial, 80 patients were divided into two groups. The control group participated in a lasted 30 minutes daily program composed of postural training for 10 minutes, limb movement for 10 minutes, and breathing exercises for 10 minutes based on regular oxygen therapy and medication. The experimental group received a once-daily, 20-minute somatosensory interactive game session based on the control group. Patients began treatment within 48 hours after admission and lasted for 6 weeks. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The time × group interactions on 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) and Brief Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Brief-BESTest) between the two groups were significant (<i>P</i> < 0.001). At the postintervention and each time point of follow-up, the 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) and Brief-BESTest of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group (<i>P</i> < 0.05). The effects of time factor on forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity were statistically significant (<i>P</i> < 0.05). The 6MWD and Brief-BESTest of the intervention group peaked 3 months after the intervention and were higher than the control group within 12 months. C-reactive protein and procalcitonin were similar between the groups before and after intervention (<i>P</i> > 0.05). The readmission rates and mean length of time spent in the hospital were comparable between the groups at 12 months (<i>P</i> > 0.05). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> The addition of somatosensory interactive games based on a PRP was safe and feasible, and this benefit persisted for 12 months, peaked at 3 months after the intervention, and then gradually decreased.