The study by Sambhaji B. Gunjal and colleagues examines how effective deep breathing and segmental breathing exercises are in improving lung function and chest expansion in people with pleural effusion.
Study Design and Method
The study was a forward-looking comparison involving 30 people aged 20 to 40 with unilateral pleural effusion. They were split into two groups: one did deep breathing exercises, and the other did segmental breathing exercises, each for two weeks.
Main Findings
The study found that both types of breathing exercises helped, but segmental breathing exercises were more effective. They improved chest expansion, Forced Expiratory Volume in One Second (FEV1), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), and Inspiratory Capacity (IC) more than deep breathing exercises.
Detailed Results
Segmental breathing exercises, which focus on specific lung areas, significantly improved chest expansion, especially in the middle and lower parts of the lungs. These exercises work by stretching and helping the muscles between the ribs work better, making them more effective for managing pleural effusion.
Practical Use and Suggestions
The study suggests starting segmental breathing exercises early in treatment for pleural effusion patients. These exercises can help the lungs expand sooner and improve the patient’s recovery.
Conclusions and Future Research
The study concludes that segmental breathing exercises are better than deep breathing exercises for increasing chest expansion and lung function in people with pleural effusion. This finding opens up more opportunities for research and improving physiotherapy methods for treating pleural effusion.
