Abstract
AIM:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of utilizing the active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT) with the threshold IMT device on functional capacity among bronchial asthma patients.
BACKGROUND:
Bronchial asthma is defined as a respiratory infection that causes inflammatory conditions in the bronchi that make breathing difficult. An epidemiological rate of 80% of bronchial asthma cases are affected in children and adults. The major causes of bronchial asthma are environmental factors, tobacco smoke or genetics. The clinical manifestations are breathlessness, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness. In bronchial asthma, breathing exercises and chest physiotherapy technique were found to be effective in improving the symptoms. However, an active cycle of breathing technique with a threshold IMT device on functional capacity effectively improved bronchial asthma.
METHODOLOGY:
A group of 30 participants was chosen through a convenient sampling technique, following specific criteria for inclusion and exclusion. The subjects who underwent ACBT with a threshold IMT device in both groups were trained with the protocol for 30mins 7 days per week for 12 weeks. The Study consent was obtained from the patients. The 6MWT is used as an assessment tool for evaluating outcomes.
RESULTS:
The values were statistically analysed using paired “t” test. The statistical analysis of the 6-minute walk test post-test indicated a significant improvement in the treatment group (p < 0.0001) after each week of ACBT with the threshold IMT.
CONCLUSION:
According to the study, ACBT with a threshold IMT device has proven to be effective at improving functional capacity.