Physiotherapy in the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): effects on symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62827/fb.v27i8.1278Keywords:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease; Physical Therapy Modalities; Rehabilitation; Dyspnea; Quality of Life.Abstract
Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by persistent symptoms and airflow limitation, which can compromise functional capacity and quality of life. In this context, respiratory physiotherapy constitutes an important non-pharmacological strategy for managing the disease. Objective: To synthesize, through an integrative literature review, the available evidence on physiotherapeutic interventions for the management of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), considering their effects on respiratory symptoms, respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, exercise tolerance, and quality of life, as well as the integration of these interventions into broader pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Methods: This is an integrative literature review conducted using the PubMed, SciELO, and BVS databases. A total of 235 records were identified, 65 of which were excluded due to duplication. Following the screening and eligibility stages, 13 studies comprised the final sample. Results: Evidence demonstrated that breathing exercises, inspiratory muscle training, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs can contribute to reduced dyspnea and improvements in respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, exercise tolerance, and quality of life. Airway clearance techniques showed benefits primarily in patients with secretion retention. However, heterogeneity was observed among the protocols and outcomes evaluated, reinforcing the need to tailor interventions to the individual. Conclusion: Respiratory physiotherapy has favorable effects on COPD management—particularly regarding symptoms, functionality, and quality of life—and should be part of multidisciplinary care. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to establish more standardized therapeutic protocols and determine the most effective strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Davi Heringer Sathler Ribeiro, Ana Lara Nunes do Carmo, Daniel Ferreira Heringer , Filipe Alves Costa Barbosa (Autor)
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