全科医学杂志

Examining Evidence for Conventional versus Complementary Therapies to Address Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Jared G. Kerr, Susan M. Sinclair,Robert W. Boyce, Harold Campbell,David J. Giordano, and Justine J. Reel

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in the United States [1]. COPD is a complex disease for which the cause and cure remain elusive. Conventional treatments for COPD have traditionally included medication and surgery. However, these conventional therapies have limitations and have been insufficient to reliably cease disease progression or improve the patient’s quality of life in a meaningful way [2]. Complementary therapies, such as yoga, mindfulness, and tai chi, have emerged that may show promising innovations for improving COPD patient care; however, there is a paucity of studies to demonstrate clinical efficacy. Initial research on complementary therapies has revealed hope that these innovative approaches may help alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce depression and anxiety in people with COPD [3]. While there is a growing body of research surrounding complementary therapies for COPD, the weight of the evidence remains limited.