Does peripheral arterial occlusive disease influence muscle strength and exercise capacity in COPD patients?

Background: The pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is complex and understanding of it has been changing in recent years, with regard to its multisystemic manifestations, especially peripheral dysfunction and its influence on intolerance to exercise.

Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and peripheral muscle strength and exercise capacity in COPD patients.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 35 patients with COPD who were evaluated with the Ankle-Brachial Index, handgrip strength test, 1 repetition maximum (1RM) of knee extensors and flexors, and distance covered in the incremental shuttle walking test (dISWT).