Effect of Baduanjin exercise of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a study protocol for a randomized, single-blind, controlled trial

BackgroundBaduanjin is one of the traditional Chinese treatments for respiratory diseases. However, its effects on overlap syndrome (obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) have not been rigorously tested. This study aims to evaluate the benefits and safety of Baduanjin treatment in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea (OSAH). MethodsCOPD patients with OSAH will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to Baduanjin group or control group. Both groups receive continuous positive airway pressure therapy and basic medication for 12 weeks. Baduanjin group will receive additional instructional Baduanjin exercises. The primary outcomes are BODE index. The secondary outcomes are polysomnogram, cardiopulmonary exercise test, Beck Depression Scale-II, and Saint Georges Respiratory Questionnaire. DiscussionThis trial will provide preliminary evidence about the efficacy and safety of Baduanjin exercise for COPD patients with OSAH. Baduanjin exercises may become an additional option for pulmonary rehabilitation of OSA-COPD overlap syndrome. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT ChiCTR2200063171. Registered retrospectively on 1 June 2022.