Study of Muscle Mass and Stiffness Measurements of the Quadriceps to Monitor COPD Patients During Pulmonary Rehabilitation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating muscle dysfunction in patients with COPD, focusing on the loss of muscle mass and strength in the lower limbs, especially the quadriceps. This loss is linked to poorer health outcomes and increased risk of early death. The study aims to assess simple and new measurement methods to better monitor muscle health in these patients, potentially improving their care and quality of life. Participants will take part in a pulmonary rehabilitation program during which their quadriceps muscle will be measured using a tape for thigh circumference perimetry and a new technique called ShearWave elastography that evaluates muscle stiffness. These measurements, along with assessments of muscle thickness, strength, lean body mass, exercise capacity, and quality of life, will be taken at the start and after completing five weeks of rehabilitation. Throughout the study, participants will undergo these evaluations twice to track changes during the rehabilitation. The main outcomes measured are quadriceps size and stiffness at the beginning and end of the program. Additional assessments include muscle strength, body composition, endurance tests, and questionnaires about health and quality of life. This information will help determine how well these measurement methods work for monitoring muscle status in COPD patients.

Clinimetric Properties of Muscle Mass and Stiffness Measurements of the Quadriceps in Patients With COPD