Effects of Pursed Lip Breathing on Ventilation and Activities of Daily Living in Patients with COPD

Background Breathing rehabilitation techniques are designed to reduce symptoms, decrease disability, increase participation in physical and social activities, and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with chronic respiratory diseases. However, the role of these techniques remains unclear. This study examined the effects of pursed-lip breathing (PLB) on the respiratory function, arterial blood gases and the activities of daily living in patients with COPD. Methods A before-after quasi-experimental study was conducted on 40 COPD patients in Kashan, Iran. Spirogram and ABG were tested before and after three-months of PLB exercise and the Airway Questionnaire 20 (AQ20) was used to assess activities of daily living. Wilcoxon matched pairs was used for statistical analysis. Results O2sat was significantly increased (P < 0.05) and a tendency toward an increase in PaO2 was observed after three months of exercise. In addition, a decrease in PaCO2 (P < 0.05) and the respiratory rate (P < 0.001) was observed. Activities of daily living was also increased (P < 0.001). Forced expired volume second one (FEV1%) and forced vital capacity (FVC) did not change (P > 0.05). Conclusion Breathing retraining program can improve lung functions, arterial blood gas and the levels of activities of daily living. Therefore, breathing retraining should be included in respiratory physiotherapy programs in patients with COPD.