Combined Effect of 12 Weeks Baduanjin and Tri-Ball Respiratory Training as a Home-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Subjects with Moderate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Multi-Center Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background Despite promising individual benefits, the combined efficacy of Baduanjin and Tri-Ball Breath training as a home-based pulmonary rehabilitation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) subjects remains unexplored. Objective The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of combining Baduanjin (a traditional Chinese exercise) and Tri-Ball Breath training into a home-based pulmonary rehabilitation regimen for COPD patients. Methods A multicenter randomized controlled trial was conducted, enrolling 240 moderate COPD patients from 10 hospitals. Participants were randomly assigned to four groups: Baduanjin group, Tri-Ball Breath training group, Combination training group, and control group. The intervention lasted 12 weeks. Data were collected at baseline, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks post-intervention. Results After 12 weeks, the 6-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD) significantly improved in the Baduanjin group and the Tri-Ball Breath training group (p <0.05), with the most significant improvement observed in the Combination training group (p <0.01) compared to the control group. FEV1% increased in the Baduanjin group and the Tri-Ball Breath training group (p <0.05) and markedly improved in the Combination training group (p <0.01). No significant differences were observed in the COPD Assessment Test (CAT), the Modified British Medical Research Council Scale (mMRC), or the Traditional Chinese Medicine symptom scores at 4-week and 8-week. The mMRC scores improved significantly in the Baduanjin group and the Combination training group at 24-week (p <0.05). The vital signs of all participants were stable from the baseline, and no statistic difference was observed among the four groups at all visits. Conclusion Our findings underscore the significance of incorporating Baduanjin and respiratory muscle training into the long-term management of COPD patients. By fostering continuous improvements in pulmonary function (FEV1%) and exercise capacity (6MWD), these interventions may help to mitigate disease progression and enhance patients' quality of life.