Abstract

COPD patients often exhibit reduced functional capacity in addition to impaired lung functions. Observation of the exercise response has therefore become the basis of objective assessment of disability both to stress the cardiorespiratory system and to evaluate reserve capacity. The incremental shuttle walk test is a standardized and externally paced field walking test, incorporating an incremental and progressive structure, to assess functional capacity in patients with chronic airways obstruction. Objectives: To monitor functional capacity of the patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by using a hospital based progressive 10-meter shuttle walking test. Methods: The study was performed on 45 patients of various stages of COPD, recruited from the Chest medicine department of Jaslok Hospital and Research center, Mumbai. Patients were made to walk as per the study protocol and the audio signal. The total distance walked was recorded along with patients’ baseline characteristics and was compared with patients FEV1 and MVV.

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