Abstract
Aim and objectives of the research: The aim of this study is to systematically review the evidence related to the role of hydrotherapy in the management of patients with COPD. The research objectives of this study are: to determine, from the literature, whether water temperature and depth of immersion influences cardiopulmonary function in patients with COPD; to determine, from the literature, whether hydrotherapy increases endurance, function and quality of life (QoL) in patients with COPD and to determine, from the literature, whether the anti-inflammatory effects of water-based exercise in patients with COPD have been documented.