Feasibility of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation in acute exacerbation of COPD

Transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation is a well-established intervention for rehabilitation of clinically stable patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This study investigated feasibility and safety of this method during acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We included 19 patients (71 ± 6 years, 76% men) who underwent two sessions/day during hospitalization (15 ± 1 training sessions). They reported good tolerability and excellent safety profile of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation. Our results set the stage for future research to determine specific benefit of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation, either alone or in combination with nutritional support and pharmacological therapy.