Entrenamiento de las extremidades superiores en el paciente con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica

in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd) showed a reduction in force generating capacity of the muscle groups of the upper extremities (ue) and the chest wall compared with healthy subjects. also, there is evidence that the exercise of the ue is associated with significant metabolic and ventilatory cost, this is particularly evident in patients with moderate and severe copd. clinically, patients have a significant increase in dyspnea and fatigue for simple activities of daily life.this chapter therefore evaluated the scientific evidence regarding the beneficial effect of upper extremities exercise in the pulmonary rehabilitation in copd patients. the technical characteristics of this exercise training were also reviewed. exercise training of upper extremities was recommended in respiratory rehabilitation of copd patients as it improves exercise capacity, reducing ventilation and oxygen consumption (quality evidence b, moderate strength recommendation). exercise training of upper extremities can be associated with lower limb muscle training to obtain every better result for patients. upper extremities exercises can be done without support, with incremental or constant load.