The Effect of Single-Leg Exercises on Pulmonary Function, Fatigue and Dyspnea in Patients with COPD: Systematic Review

<bold>Aim:</bold> The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of Single-leg exercises (SLE), in terms of pulmonary functions, dyspnoea and fatigue in patients with COPD. <bold>Methods:</bold> This study was carried out following PRISMA guideline. Six databases were searched for publications from inception to date. Randomised controlled trials, case-control studies and cross-over studies were included and conference abstracts, unpublished and animal studies were excluded. In the first screening according to mesh terms, 1011 articles were identified. According to the screening criteria, 6 studies including only the lower extremity were included. Two authors independently assessed the methodological quality of the articles via PEDro scale and JBI tool. The level of evidence were graded according to Ebro and Modified Bakker Scale by authors. <bold>Results:</bold> In the studies, eighty-five patients with COPD and fifty-five healthy controls were evaluated. Individuals with COPD with severe and modarate disease severity according to GOLD. The improvement in pulmonary function were seen three of four included studies in favor of SLE. No significant difference were found in terms of dyspnoea and fatigue parameters between SLE and control groups. According to the Bakker scale, SLE have been shown to improve pulmonary function and no effect on dyspnea, fatigue in COPD patients with strong evidence. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> Based on our findings, studies often evaluate acute responses in the post-exercise period. Current study shows with strong evidence SLE can suggest for improving pulmonary functions in patients with COPD had moderate and severe disease severity.