Abstract
The physical characteristics were compared among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with different 6-minute walking distances (6MWD). The subjects were 76 patients with stable COPD. The 6MWD, body mass index (BMI), respiratory function test, lower limb muscle strength, grip strength, respiratory muscle strength, balance function, walking ability, Nagasaki University Respiratory ADL Questionnaire (NRADL), and St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) were evaluated. The patients were divided into 3 groups based on the 6MWD, and each measurement item was investigated. Significant differences were noted in the %forced vital capacity (%FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (%FEV1.0), knee extension muscle strength, grip strength, respiratory muscle strength, single leg standing time, TUG, CS-30, time required to walk a specific distance at the maximum walking speed, NRADL, and SGRQ. The 6MWD reflected the respiratory function, muscle strength, physical ability, ADL, and health-related QOL.
