Respiratory and muscle tele-exercise in subjects with chronic dyspnea: preliminary results of a pilot study

L. Pomidori,^1,2 P. Fumarola,^1,2 S. Triacca,² M. Felisatti^1,2 | ¹Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara; ²Esercizio Vita Medical Fitness, Ferrara, Italy 

Dyspnea associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and physical deconditioning limits adherence to long-term exercise programs. An observational pilot study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility and adherence of a respiratory and muscle maintenance tele-exercise service. Twelve subjects with chronic dyspnea were enrolled following an anamnestic interview and a preliminary functional motor assessment, including the Timed Up and Go test, Sit-to-Stand test, 6-Minute Walking test, 10-Meter Walk test, Short Physical Performance Battery, and Berg Balance Scale, as well as age, body weight, and multimorbidity assessment. The program, supervised by a kinesiologist, was delivered via telematic modality. On average, 170.3 sessions were scheduled, and 145.7 were completed, with an adherence rate of 85.6% and 24 cancelled sessions. Despite high clinical heterogeneity, participants reported excellent perception and satisfaction with the service. Tele-exercise appears to be safe, feasible, and sustainable in selected subjects with chronic dyspnea.