Effects of an incremental walking test in the gait of individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the functionality of gait and cardiorespiratory parameters in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), before and after a walk test, in order to allow the development of strategies, aimed at maintaining autonomy and preservation of independence. In this study, were included individuals with COPD, aged between 50 to 80 years, and excluded those with orthopedic, neurological and cardiac problems, or any condition that would prevent the assessments proposed in this study. The variables measured were:1st peak force, mid peak low and 2nd peak force, time of 1st double support, the swing moment and 2nd double support; single support time, stride length and stride, speed and time gait cycle, heart rate, oxygen saturation and dyspnea/tiredness score, pre and post-test. The sample consisted of 14 individuals (8 females and 6 males), mean age 65.21±9.42 years. In the post-test patients had greater sensation of dyspnea / fatigue, increased speed and reduced time of the gait cycle, increase the 1st peak force and reduction of the mid peak low, reduction the time the 1st double support and the time of the 1st peak force. The physical effort had influenced the gait pattern and cardiorespiratory parameters in this group of individuals with COPD.