Longitudinal Changes in Handgrip Strength, Hyperinflation, and 6-Minute Walk Distance in Patients With COPD and a Control Group

HGS and 6MWD are reduced in patients with COPD, particularly in those with hyperinflation and evidence of longitudinal deterioration not seen in control subjects. This finding suggests that resting hyperinflation may exert a detrimental effect on cardiac function and plays a role in reduced exercise performance in patients with COPD.