Transcranial direct current stimulation’s effect on exercise capacity, respiratory muscle strength, and physical performance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with alterations in brain function that contribute to reduced respiratory and skeletal muscle strength, ultimately limiting exercise capacity. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive neuromodulation technique, has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing lower extremity function in healthy older adults. Objective: To evaluate the effects of a single session of anodal tDCS on exercise capacity, respiratory muscle strength, and physical performance in individuals with COPD. Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial, 26 participants with COPD underwent baseline assessments of exercise capacity (Six-Minute Walk Distance, 6MWD), respiratory muscle strength (Maximum Inspiratory Pressure, MIP), and physical performance (4-m Gait Speed, 4MGS). Participants then received either active or sham tDCS, followed by reassessment 1 day post-intervention. Results: Compared to sham, the active tDCS group showed significant improvements in physical performance, including increases of 46 ± 11.45 m in 6MWD (p < 0.001), 12.54 ± 4.52 cm, H2O in MIP (p < 0.01), and 0.24 ± 0.08 m/s in 4MGS (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A single session of anodal tDCS may enhance exercise capacity, inspiratory muscle strength, and gait speed in patients with COPD, suggesting its potential as a supportive intervention in pulmonary rehabilitation.