EFFECT OF DIAPHRAGMATIC EXCURSION TRAINING ON PULMONARY FUNCTION, DYSPNEA AND FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY IN PATIENTS WITH STABLE CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

Abstract

Background:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is characterized by persistent airflow limitation, dyspnea,
and reduced functional capacity. Diaphragmatic dysfunction, particularly reduced diaphragmatic
excursion, plays a key role in impaired respiratory mechanics. Targeted interventions focusing on
improving diaphragmatic mobility may enhance clinical outcomes.
Objective:
To evaluate the effect of diaphragmatic excursion training on pulmonary function, dyspnea, and
functional capacity in patients with stable COPD.
Methods:
A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 30 patients with stable COPD, aged 40–70 years.
Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: an experimental group receiving
diaphragmatic excursion training and a control group receiving conventional physiotherapy. The
intervention was administered for 6 weeks, 5 sessions per week. Outcome measures included
pulmonary function tests (FEV₁, FVC), dyspnea assessed using the Modified Medical Research
Council (mMRC) scale, and functional capacity measured by the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT).
Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results:
The experimental group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in pulmonary function
(FEV₁ and FVC), reduction in dyspnea scores, and increased functional capacity compared to the
control group (p < 0.05). Although the control group also showed improvement, the magnitude of
change was significantly greater in the experimental group.
Conclusion:
Diaphragmatic excursion training is an effective intervention for improving pulmonary function,
reducing dyspnea, and enhancing functional capacity in patients with stable COPD. It can be
considered a valuable addition to pulmonary rehabilitation programs.