Abstract
This study aimed to determine the efficacy of a combined physical therapy and pharmacological treatment for patients recovering from stage III COPD exacerbation. The efficacy of the rehabilitation program was assessed using anthropological parameters, physical condition, respiratory system function, and functional endurance capacity. Data were collected from 39 patients with stage III COPD who underwent the rehabilitation program. Physical and anthropometric assessments were conducted using the Quetelet Body Mass Index, the Pignet Index, and the Vital Capacity Index (VCI). The functional capacities of the cardiorespiratory system were measured before and after the rehabilitation program using the Ruffier and Ruffier-Dickson tests and the hypoxic Shtange and Genchi tests. Exercise tolerance was evaluated using the Harvard Step Test and the Six-Minute Walk Distance Test (6MWD). Statistical analysis was conducted using the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test for independent and dependent groups. Participants were randomly divided into two groups for rehabilitation: Group I received standard therapy and a routine physical therapy program, while Group II was given standard therapy along with a modified physical therapy regimen. There was a slight improvement in patient condition during the rehabilitation period for both groups. However, there was a low compliance rate for smoking cessation among the majority of patients, with some reducing their daily cigarette intake. Further long-time research is required to determine the efficacy of the proposed physical therapy program in combination with basic pharmacological therapy. The study suggests incorporating psychotherapeutic sessions and occupational therapy into future rehabilitation programs.