Skeletal muscle dysfunction is an important factor in reduced exercise capacity, impaired quality of life and higher health-care utilization in COPD. Reduced quadriceps function is associated with decreased survival, functional status, and quality of life. Relating quadriceps peak torque (Tq) to its peak electromyographic (EMG) signal (Eq) is an index that may predict fatigue during active contraction. It has not been investigated in patients with chronic respiratory disorders. The objective of this study is to assess changes in skeletal muscle function in patients undergoing a standard 8-week outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program. We hypothesized that the ratio Eq/Tq in such patients should be increased in comparison to healthy control subjects.

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