Lotshaw AM, Thompson M, Sadowsky HS, Hart MK, Millard MW
The purpose of this study was to compare quality of life and physical performance in land- and water-based pulmonary rehabilitation. Twenty land- and water-based participants with stable COPD disease were retrospectively matched within 20 mL of their forced expiratory ventilation in 1 second. Each group significantly improved in all outcome measurements, but there was no difference found in the improvements between the land- or water-based groups. The authors conclude that clinicians can consider water-based PR exercise program as another treatment option, if available, for patients with COPD and expect similar benefits to traditional land-based PR programs including improved walk distances, strength, and perception of well-being.
Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention, 2007, 27(4), 247-51