Upper Extremity Exercise Capacity and Activities of Daily Living in Individuals with Bronchiectasis Versus Healthy Controls

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the upper extremity exercise capacity and activities of daily living (ADLs) in individuals with bronchiectasis and controls. Methods Twenty-four individuals with bronchiectasis and 24 healthy controls were assessed for upper extremity exercise capacity (6-minute pegboard and ring test [6PBRT]) and ADLs (Glittre ADL test). Energy expenditure was measured using a wearable metabolic monitor during the Glittre ADL test. Results The mean 6PBRT score of individuals with bronchiectasis was significantly lower than the mean score of controls (196.50 [SD = 51.75] versus 243.00 [SD = 29.76] number of rings). The Glittre ADL test duration was significantly higher in individuals with bronchiectasis compared with controls (3.54 [SD = 1.53] versus 2.36 [SD = 0.18] min), despite similar energy expenditure during the Glittre ADL test between the groups (17.67 [SD = 5.28] kcal in individuals with bronchiectasis versus 18.13 [SD = 5.71] kcal in controls). The 6PBRT score and the Glittre ADL test duration were negatively correlated in individuals with bronchiectasis (r = −0.694). Conclusions The individuals with bronchiectasis had reduced upper extremity exercise capacity compared with healthy controls. Energy expenditure during ADLs was similar between individuals with bronchiectasis and healthy controls, despite lower ADL performance in individuals with bronchiectasis. The upper extremity exercise capacity and ADLs are related in individuals with bronchiectasis. Given the relationship between upper extremity exercise capacity and ADLs in bronchiectasis, inclusion of upper extremity exercise training to pulmonary rehabilitation programs should be considered. Impact Considering the impairment of upper extremity exercise capacity and ADLs in individuals with bronchiectasis highlights the necessity to tailor preventive strategies and preclude further unfavorable effects. Lay Summary Bronchiectasis may cause deterioration in upper extremity exercise capacity and ADLs. The assessment of upper exercise capacity and ADLs by physical therapists in individuals with bronchiectasis may be useful for designing comprehensive rehabilitation programs and thus the management of bronchiectasis.