Combined Effects of Buteyko Breathing Technique and Chest Wall Mobilization on Pulmonary Functions and Quality of Life

This randomized clinical trial will evaluate the combined effect of the Buteyko breathing technique and chest wall mobilization on pulmonary functions and quality of life in chronic smokers. A sample size of 40 is calculated through a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Participants will be recruited into Group 1 and Group 2 by lottery method (without replacement). Group 1 will be engaged in the Buteyko breathing technique + Chest Wall Mobilization and Group 2 will undergo Buteyko Breathing Technique + Without Chest Wall Mobilization. Pre and post-outcome measures of pulmonary functions will be measured through a digital spirometer and quality of life will be assessed by the St George Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Spirometry assesses the amount and speed of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. Key measurements include Forced Vital Capacity (FVC): The maximum volume of air forcefully exhaled after a full inhalation. Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1): The volume of air exhaled in the first second of the FVC test, indicates how quickly the lungs can be emptied.

St Saint Georg quality of life questionnaire for assessing the QOL. The SGRQ is a standardized self-administered airway disease-specific questionnaire divided into 2 subscales, a total of 12 questions. For each subscale and the overall questionnaire, scores range from zero (no impairment) to 100 (maximum impairment).

Inclusion criteria

• Both male and female participants were included
• The age of participants was 40 -55 years.
• Individuals who fulfilled the criteria of smoking which is calculated by multiplying the number of packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked were included.
• Individuals who are current smokers or history of long-term smoking were included.
• Predicted values FEV1 < 75% and FEV1/FVC <70%

Exclusion criteria

• Participants with neurological disorders were excluded
• Participants with musculoskeletal disorders were excluded as it affects the physical activity of the 6-minute walk test.
• Participants having any pulmonary complications or lung disease were excluded.
• Participants previously involved in any other exercise or physical activity were excluded.