Pulmonary rehabilitation in underground salt chambers for people with COPD

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This interventional program offers pulmonary rehabilitation and climatic (microclimate) therapy conducted in subterranean salt chambers characterized by cool, humid, highly ionized air. Participants take part in guided breathing exercises, general fitness training, relaxation sessions, and health education while clinical status and functional outcomes are measured before and after the intervention. Eligible participants must have COPD with post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC < 0.7 and FEV1 ≥ 30% predicted and be able to perform the exercise program. The intervention is delivered at AKF Kraków in Krakow, Poland, using the underground salt-mine environment as an adjunct to standard rehabilitation techniques.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* COPD diagnosis confirmed by a pulmonology specialist according to the 2025 GOLD guidelines.
* FEV1 ≥ 30% of the predicted value.
* FEV1/FVC \< 0.7 after bronchodilator administration in spirometry.
* Negative bronchodilator reversibility test.
* Voluntary written consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* COPD exacerbation.
* Active cancer or a history of cancer within the past five years.
* Musculoskeletal disorders preventing independent movement and participation in exercise tests and training included in the study protocol.
* Recent (within six months) surgical procedure or trauma to the chest, abdomen, skull, brain, or eye area.
* Severe valvular heart disease.
* Implanted cardioverter-defibrillator.
* Diagnosed arrhythmias posing a risk of loss of consciousness.
* Acute coronary artery disease.
* Epilepsy.
* Uncontrolled arterial hypertension despite medication.
* Primary or secondary immunodeficiencies.
* Respiratory failure requiring chronic or intermittent oxygen therapy.
* Infectious diseases with fever during the experiment or within two weeks before the study.
* Claustrophobia.
* Pregnancy.
* Simultaneous participation in another rehabilitation program.
* Significant changes in pharmacological treatment during the study.

Where it's running

• AKF Kraków
  Krakow, Małopolska, Poland Recruiting

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.