Inclined Exercise for COPD

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byDebra J. Romberger, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

This study is designed to provide information regarding how to improve pulmonary rehabilitation for persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pulmonary rehabilitation is an exercise program for COPD patients that is recommended and benefits some, but not all, patients. The question being studied in this trial is whether during an exercise program, walking on an incline might be better than walking on faster on a flat surface in training muscles so that patients might be less short of breath with exercise.

Research Team

Debra J. Romberger, MD

Principal Investigator

Omaha VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, NE

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Participants should be able to attend 36 exercise sessions. Specific eligibility details are not provided, but typically, patients must meet certain health criteria and may need a doctor's approval.

Inclusion Criteria

My lung function tests show moderate to severe restriction.

I will have a lung function test after taking medicine to open my airways.

Subjects with qualifying spirometry will be screened further

See 3 more

Exclusion Criteria

I do not have neurological, musculoskeletal, or metabolic diseases.

I need an oxygen mask for breathing at rest or during activities.

I am not on medications that affect my mood or metabolism.

See 1 more

Treatment Details

Interventions

Inclined Exercise (Behavioural Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study compares two types of exercises: walking on an incline vs. walking at increasing speeds on a flat surface. It aims to determine which method better improves muscle training and reduces breathlessness during physical activity in COPD patients.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Walking at SpeedExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Subjects will walk on treadmill at speed equal to 60% of their peak heart rate as determined on baseline cardiopulmonary exercise test.

Group II: Walking at InclineExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Subjects will walk on treadmill at slope equal to 60% of their peak heart rate as determined on baseline cardiopulmonary exercise test.