Feasibility of Strength Training in Patients Hospitalized Due to COPD

Feasibility of Progressive Knee Extension Strength Training Using Ankle Weight Cuffs in Patients Hospitalized With COPD in Acute Exacerbation

To examine the feasibility of progressive unilateral knee-extension strength training using ankle weight cuffs in patients hospitalized due to acute exacerbation in COPD

We decided that feasibility is indicated if: 1) the absolute training loads increase progressively, 2) more than 80% of the planned training sessions are completed, and 3)if the absolute training loads do not exceed 20 kg (2 x10kg weight cuffs) for 90% of patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Have a primary diagnosis of COPD
• Be admitted to the pulmonary ward due to an exacerbation in COPD
• Provide informed consent to participation in the study
• Be able to maintain an upright position on a chair
• Be able to be guided to training and understand instructions for participating

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients suffering from diseases that prevents the use of wrist weights such as

• Deep venous thrombosis (DVT)
• Erysipelas
• Painful edema of the limbs
• Lack of ability to walk, habitually
• Predicted hospital stay of less than four days as predicted by a pulmonary physician
• Patients admitted Friday night or Saturday morning cannot be stared up within 24 hours of admittance