Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation During Exercise in Patients With COPD

Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation During Acute Aerobic Exercise in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease After Exacerbation

Early pulmonary rehabilitation is recommended after an episode of severe exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, its implementation is challenging particularly as regard exercise training. Several studies showed that transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) could improve dyspnea and pulmonary function. The aim of this study is to assess the acute effect of TENS on exercise tolerance in post-exacerbation COPD patients

Inclusion Criteria:

• a diagnosis of COPD

Exclusion Criteria:

• exercise contraindication Any musculoskeletal problems, cardiovascular or
• neurological comorbidities that limits exercise.
• pH < 7,35
• Body temperature > 38°C
• cardiac frequency > 100 bpm at rest
• systolic blood pressure < 100 mmHg
• exacerbation during the study
• heart pace-maker or defibrillator
• Opiate treatment during the last 3 months