COPD: Exercise Testing & Prescription

Luca is a 68 year old male with moderate COPD who is referred for physical therapy to improve exercise tolerance. He reports dyspnea with minimal exertion and has a 6-minute walk test distance of 250 meters. His resting oxygen saturation is 92% on room air. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial exercise approach?A) Interval training with short work and rest periods at moderate intensityB) Continuous training at 75% of peak work rate to build enduranceC) Resisted walking with a weighted vest to strengthen lower extremitiesD) Breathing retraining combined with unsupported upper extremity exercisesJoin the FREE Facebook Group: www.nptegroup.com