The Effect Of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs On Physical Activity Level And Perception Of Exercise In Patients With Chronic Respiratory Disease

Introduction: The aim of the study is to investigate whether the perception of exercise has changed in patients who are included in the pulmonary rehabilitation (PR)program and the effect of PR on activity levels. Methods: In this retrospective study, patients completed PR program was evaluated. Long-term oxygen treatment, domicilary non-invasive mechanical ventilator use were recorded. PR program was applied to the patients 2 days a week for a total of 8 weeks. Before and after PR program the 6-minute walking test, exercise scale and international physical activity scale were applied for exercise quality (Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire) questionnaire exercise capacities were recorded Results: A total of 42 patients, 30 male and 12 female, with mean age 58 ± 11.6, were included. 30 of the patients had COPD.While 60% of the patients were inactive, only 4% were active. According to the COPD stages, there was a strong (Cor coeiff:-0,600) correlation between the disease stage and physical activity. There was statistically significant correlation between physical activity level and 6MWT, all parameters of SGRQ, anxiety and depression scores. After PR a statistically significant improvenment observed in quality of life score (p≤0,0001), 6MWT(p≤0,0001), lower and upper extremity muscle strengths (p≤0,0001), grip strength (p≤0,002).A significant increase in physical activity levels observed. It was observed that the perspectives on exercise changed positively. Conclusion: PR programs can be applied effectively even in patients who think that they can’t exercise and can change their point of view for exercise