Effects of sub maximal training in underwater treadmill on Lung Volume, Lung Capacity and Quality of life among Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Patients

Effects of Submaximal Underwater Treadmill Training on Lung Volume Lung Capacity and Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease COPD

Introduction

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition characterized by airflow limitation breathlessness chest tightness mucus production and reduced physical tolerance Major contributing factors include smoking and environmental pollutants Due to decreased lung function and reduced exercise capacity, patients experience poor quality of life

Exercise training is considered an important component of pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD patients While several studies have evaluated land based submaximal and high-intensity training limited evidence is available on underwater treadmill based training which may offer advantages due to buoyancy reduced joint stress and improved respiratory mechanics

Need of the Study

Water-based training reduces the gravitational load improves ventilation, enhances balance and safety during exercise, and can improve functional capacity with less fatigue Since there is insufficient research on the effectiveness of submaximal underwater treadmill exercise in COPD this study aims to explore its impact on lung function and quality of life

Aim

To evaluate the effects of submaximal underwater treadmill exercise training on lung volumes lung capacities and quality of life in COPD patients

Objectives

To assess the improvements in lung function after underwater treadmill based submaximal exercise training with conventional physiotherapy

To assess the improvements in lung function following only conventional physiotherapy

To compare both treatment approaches to determine which is more effective

Hypothesis

There will be no significant difference between the effects of underwater treadmill based submaximal exercise and conventional physiotherapy alone on lung capacity and quality of life in COPD patients

Null hypothesis may be rejected if results are significant

Methodology

Study Design  Experimental study Pre test and Posttest

Sampling Technique  Convenience sampling

Sample Size  60 COPD patients

Duration  6 weeks alternative-day sessions

Setting  RVS College of Physiotherapy

Groups

Group A Underwater treadmill and Breathing exercises

Group B Breathing exercises only

Outcome Measures

Pulmonary Function Test PFT Lung volume and capacity

McGill COPD Quality of Life Questionnaire QOL

Expected Outcome

Underwater treadmill training may

Improve lung expansion due to hydrostatic pressure

Enhance respiratory muscle efficiency

Reduce dyspnea and fatigue

Improve overall quality of life and pulmonary function better than conventional therapy alone

Conclusion

This study may provide scientific evidence supporting underwater treadmill based submaximal training as a safe and effective intervention in pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD patients