Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disorder characterized by airflow limitation, breathlessness, and reduced quality of life. Breathing exercises are commonly used in pulmonary rehabilitation to improve respiratory efficiency and functional capacity. Among these techniques, pursed lip breathing (PLB) helps slow expiration, reduce air trapping, and improve ventilation, while alternate nostril breathing (ANB), a yogic breathing technique, may enhance respiratory control and relaxation.
The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of pursed lip breathing alone compared with the combined effect of pursed lip breathing and alternate nostril breathing on pulmonary function and quality of life in patients with Grade I COPD. This randomized controlled trial will include approximately 40 participants diagnosed with mild COPD. The participants will be divided into two groups: one group will perform pursed lip breathing exercises, while the other group will perform a combination of pursed lip breathing and alternate nostril breathing.
Pulmonary function tests and quality of life assessments will be used as outcome measures to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions. The study aims to determine whether combining both breathing techniques provides greater improvement in respiratory function and patient well being than pursed lip breathing alone. The findings may contribute to developing more effective physiotherapy based pulmonary rehabilitation strategies for patients with COPD.
Patients diagnosed with Grade I COPD (FEV₁ > 80% predicted)
Age between 40 to 65 years.
Both male and female patients.
Patients able to follow verbal instructions and perform breathing exercises.
History of orthopedic conditions limiting sitting or breathing exercises.
Recent respiratory infections or COPD exacerbations within the past 4 weeks.
Neurological or cognitive impairments.
Recent thoracic or abdominal surgeries.
Parallel
pursed lip breathing
Other interventionAlternate Nostril Breathing (ANB): Alternate nostril breathing is a controlled breathing technique commonly used in yogic practices to regulate breathing patterns. In this method, the individual inhales through one nostril while the other is closed, then exhales through the opposite nostril in an alternating pattern. This technique promotes relaxation, improves respiratory control, and may enhance lung function.
Alternate Nostril breathing:
Other interventionAlternate nostril breathing is a simple technique where you inhale through one nostril and exhale through the other in a controlled pattern. It helps calm the mind and improves lung function. This breathing exercise can be beneficial in conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Practicing it regularly enhances relaxation and balances the body.
Pulmonary Function Test
Pulmonary function will be assessed using a calibrated spirometer to evaluate lung function parameters, including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁), and FEV₁/FVC ratio. The test will be performed according to standardized guidelines, with participants instructed to perform maximal inspiration followed by a forceful and sustained expiration into the spirometer.
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