Electrical stimulation combined with breathing exercises for COPD

This study is testing a new combination approach to help people with COPD (a chronic lung disease that makes breathing difficult). Researchers want to see if using transcutaneous electrical diaphragmatic stimulation—a gentle electrical device applied to your breathing muscle—works better when combined with active cycle of breathing techniques than breathing exercises alone. The trial will measure whether this combined approach improves lung function, oxygen levels, and your ability to walk and exercise.

COPD weakens the muscles you use to breathe and limits how much air your lungs can move, which reduces quality of life. While breathing exercises have helped some patients, researchers haven't yet tested whether adding electrical stimulation makes this treatment even more effective.