Respiratory simulators and halotherapy in rehabilitation of patients with chronic respiratory diseases

Abstract

Respiratory diseases are among the leading causes of morbidity, temporary disability, and mortality of the population. The purpose of the study: to assess the efficacy of the combined sequential effect of the Universal-2011 respiratory massage simulator and halotherapy in the complex treatment and rehabilitation of patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Materials and methods. The study involved 60 patients aged 32 to 64 with chronic respiratory diseases beyond the acute stage, with respiratory failure of 0-1 degrees. All patients were divided by randomization into two groups: the main group (32 people) and the comparison group (28 people). The patients of both groups underwent clinical examination, saccharin test, and spirography, and the quality of life was assessed using the COPD assessment test (CAT). The patients of the main group were trained under conditions of hypoxia and hypercapnia with the Universal-2011 breathing simulator followed by a session of halotherapy. The patients of the comparison group received only halotherapy sessions according to the same methodology and parameters. The course of treatment included 10 procedures. As a result of the treatment, a statistically significant decrease in respiratory rate was noted in the main group in relation to the comparison group. Only in the main group, there was a significant increase in VC, FEV1, peak expiratory flow rate, and peak inspiratory flow rate. According to the CAT, all patients noted an improvement in their general condition, however, in the main group it was more significant, and the disease had a negligible effect on the patients’ lives, while in the comparison group it remained moderate. Conclusions. The proposed technique with the consistent use of the Universal-2011 breathing simulator and the halotherapy procedure can be included in the treatment and rehabilitation complex of patients with chronic respiratory diseases.