Abstract
Objective To find the effect of aerobic exercises versus respiratory muscle training program on lung function among Quarry workers.
Design: Randomized controlled trial.
Subjects/Patients: Forty Quarry workers participated in the study
Methods: Patients were randomly allocated to two groups. (Group A) were given aerobic exercises by engaging in a 30-minute session of walking on a treadmill, for eight weeks, three times a week. (Group B) were given a respiratory muscle training program using incentive spirometer in addition to aerobic exercise for eightweeks. A spirometer was used to do a pulmonary function test, which evaluated lung function by measuring Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), and the ratio of FEV1 to FVC.
Results: Finding of this study indicated substantial improvement of FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC after treatment in both groups values (P value= < 0.00001). there was significant difference between both groups after treatment regarding to FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC with favored result in (Group B).
Conclusion: Both groups showed a significant improved on lung function in favor to group B. So, this study proven that respiratory muscle training is an essential supplement to aerobic exercise for pulmonary rehabilitation to improve pulmonary functions in Quarry workers.