Downhill Walking in IPF

Effects of Downhill Walking in Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Patients With Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

In this study; will examine the effects of downhill walking (eccentric exercise training) on exercise capacity, quality of life, and blood lactate levels in individuals with IPF. After the initial assessment, patients will be randomized into two groups: downhill walking PR group and Standard PR Group.

Individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis who come to the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Unit of Istanbul Süreyyapaşa Chest Diseases and Chest Surgery Education and Research Hospital will be included in this study. Those who meet the inclusion criteria will be randomized into two groups: Downhill Walking Pr Group (n=17) and Standard Pr Group (n=17). Patients will have exercise sessions twice a week for 8 weeks. Patients will be evaluated immediately before the rehabilitation program and the end of 8 weeks exercise programme. In our study, downhill walking training will differ from traditional walking training only in terms of treadmill training protocol. Traditional walking training involves walking on a motorized treadmill with a neutral incline, progressing with increases in speed, while downhill walking training will be performed at a constant -10% incline.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Having a diagnosis of IPF according to the clinical diagnostic criteria of the American Thoracic Society and/or the European Respiratory Society (ATS-ERS).
• Being between the ages of 18 and 75.
• Being able to walk on a treadmill.
• Having the ability to cooperate.
• No change in current medication in the last month.
• Not participating in a structured activity program for at least six months.
• Accepting the purpose and method of this study voluntarily and give informed consent for the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of physical or mental impairment that prevents informed consent or compliance with the protocol.
• Inability to attend more than 20% of pulmonary rehabilitation sessions.
• Presence of major cardiovascular disease (coronary artery disease, uncontrolled hypertension, arrhythmias, or heart failure).
• Presence of existing orthopedic and neuromuscular exercise limitations.
• Acute exacerbation