Comparison between pulmonary rehabilitation and dance-based training in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Although it has been little studied in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, dancing is a physical activity that can improve health-related physical parameters and psychological well-being. This study aimed to compare the effects of physical training using dance versus pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) on functional capacity, pulmonary and muscular function, and quality of life (QoL) in COPD patients. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial involved 11 patients who underwent dance (DG) and 11 patients who underwent PR (PRG). The patients were evaluated using the following assessments: the mMRC scale, the COPD Assessment Test (CAT), the Short Form-36 (SF-36), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), spirometry, handgrip strength (HGS), the 1-repetition maximum (1-RM) test, and the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Results: In the intra-group comparison, the DG showed an increase in 6-minute walking distance (6MWD) [52 (44–64) vs. 67 (58–76) % predicted, p=0.003], a reduction in the mMRC scale, and an improvement in the SF-36 physical functioning and vitality domains. In the intra-group comparison, the PRG showed an increase in 6MWD [61 (56–73) vs. 70 (62–82), p=0.007], a reduction in the mMRC scale, an increase in HGS, an increase in the 1-RM test, and an improvement in all SF-36 domains. In the comparison between groups, there were no significant differences for clinical characteristics, pulmonary function, muscle function, or functional capacity; however, the PRG showed an improvement in QoL in the following domains: physical role limitations, general health perceptions, and emotional role limitations. Conclusion: For patients with COPD, a dance program has the potential to improve functional capacity, the degree of dyspnea, and QoL. However, when compared to a PR, dance is less effective in addressing muscle dysfunction. Therefore, when possible, dance should be offered to COPD patients, especially those unmotivated to undertake a conventional PR program.