Improve Muscle Weakness in Patient With COPD

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of combining aerobic exercise with blood flow restriction (BFR) training in patients with emphysematous chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study aimed to determine whether adding BFR to aerobic exercise could enhance muscle strength and functional capacity compared with conventional training alone. The findings demonstrated that aerobic exercise combined with BFR significantly improved lower-limb muscle strength, exercise tolerance, and functional performance in patients with emphysematous COPD. These results suggest that BFR-assisted aerobic training may serve as an effective and safe rehabilitation strategy to improve physical function and quality of life in this population.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients diagnosed with emphysematous chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). * Clinically stable COPD patients with no acute exacerbation within the previous 4-6 weeks. * Mild to moderate disease severity according to GOLD criteria. * Ability to participate safely in aerobic exercise training. * Medically stable and cleared by a physician for pulmonary rehabilitation. * Ability to understand and follow study instructions. Exclusion Criteria: * Acute COPD exacerbation or respiratory infection during the study period. * Severe cardiovascular diseases (e.g., unstable angina, uncontrolled hypertension, recent myocardial infarction). * Peripheral vascular disease or contraindications to blood flow restriction (BFR) training. * Severe musculoskeletal, neurological, or orthopedic disorders limiting exercise performance. * Cognitive impairment affecting cooperation or informed consent. * Participation in another structured rehabilitation program during the study period. * Severe hypoxemia requiring continuous oxygen therapy during exercise. * History of deep vein thrombosis or clotting disorders.