Short Term Effects Of Exercises On Physical Activity, Dyspnea And Length Of Hospital Stay In Individuals With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases A Randomized Controlled Trial- A Prospective Cohort Study

ABSTRACT Background: COPD is a chronic respiratory disorder characterized by airflow limitation and airway inflammation, leading to reduced physical activity levels (PAL) due to skeletal and abdominal muscle weakness. This study aimed to assess the short-term effects of exercise on PAL, dyspnea, and length of hospital stay (LOHS) in COPD patients. The objective was to evaluate changes in Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), 2-Minute Walk Test (2MWT), Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), and LOHS. Material and Methods: This Ranomized Controlled Trial involved 62 participants aged 40–60 years with mild to moderate COPD were recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants were divided into control and experimental groups using a convenient sampling method and randomized by an odd-even ratio. Both groups followed designated treatment protocols. SPPB, 2MWT, and RPE were assessed on the 1st and 5th day of treatment. Results: Statistical analysis (Chi-square test, independent t-test, Wilcoxon matched pairs test, Mann- Whitney U test) showed no significant age differences between groups. Significant improvements were observed in RPE, SPPB, and 2MWT post-intervention, whereas LOHS remained unchanged in both groups. Discussion: This study evaluated the short-term effects of structured exercise on physical activity (PA), dyspnea, and length of hospital stay in individuals with COPD. A total of 62 patients at SDMCMSH were included and assigned to either a control group or an intervention group receiving targeted exercises. Results showed that exercise significantly improved PA, reduced dyspnea, and shortened hospital stays. The intervention group demonstrated higher physical performance (SPPB scores), increased walking distances (2MWT), and lower perceived exertion (RPE scores). These benefits are attributed to enhanced muscle strength, oxygen utilization, and respiratory efficiency. Younger age in the intervention group may have influenced better outcomes. Overall, the findings support structured exercise as an effective rehabilitation strategy to improve functional capacity and reduce COPD-related hospitalizations. Conclusion: Exercise intervention led to improved PAL and reduced dyspnea in the experimental group compared to the control group. However, LOHS remained unaffected. Keywords: COPD; Exercises; Abdominal muscle strength; Physical activity level; Dyspnea