Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Peripheral Muscle Strength and Exercise Tolerance in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients: A Systematic Review

Currently, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is perceived not only as a pulmonary disease, but more as a systemic disease affecting the functioning of other organs including the locomotor system. The application of physical therapy in patients with COPD has been found to be safe and beneficial. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) treatment is particularly beneficial for patients who are unable or unwilling to participate in daily activities or regular physical exercise. The efficacy of this technique has not yet been fully demonstrated in patients with COPD. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of NMES on peripheral muscle strength and exercise tolerance in COPD patients. As part of the literature review for this study, seven studies over the last 19 years have been taken into consideration. The review included the following databases: Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Google Scholar, and PubMed. Based on our literature review, we concluded that NMES has positive effects on increasing peripheral muscle strength and exercise tolerance in COPD patients. Future research should examine whether the therapeutic effects are long-lasting, whether they are experienced by all COPD patient groups, and which frequency or type of NMES delivers the most effective results.