Abstract
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) appears to be associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) due to long-term use of corticosteroids as a result patients with COPD are at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures and worsening pulmonary function.
Objective: The present study aimed to measure the effects of treadmill walking exercises on bone mineral status in patients with COPD.
Methods: Sixty patients with moderate COPD of both sexes, their age ranged from 45 to 58 years. Subjects were divided into two equal groups: training group (group A) received aerobic exercise training on treadmill for six months, where the second group (B) was considered as a control group who received no exercise training. The program consisted of three sessions per week for six months.
Results: The results of this study indicated a significant increase in BMD of the lumbar spine & the radius and serum calcium & significant reduction in parathyroid hormone in group (A), while these changes were not significant in group (B). Also; there was a significant difference between both groups at the end of the study.
Conclusion: Treadmill walking exercise training is an effective treatment policy to improve bone mineral status in patients with COPD.