Respiratory Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Technique in Chronic Pulmonary Obstructive Disease Patients.

Effects of Respiratory Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Technique on Pulmonary Function of Chronic Pulmonary Obstructive Disease (COPD) Patients.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of PNF technique combined with aerobic exercises among COPD patients in a clinical setting. Previous literature has evaluated this technique in ventilated patients but in clinical setting specifically in Pakistan, this invention therapy has not been implied in COPD patients.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder manifested as breathlessness, respiratory difficulties and persistent cough is one of the biggest causes of mortality around the world. 2.1% of Pakistani population has COPD. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation is used as management technique in which muscle stretching promotes chest wall mobility and restores regular breathing rhythm. In previous studies, PNF technique combined with aerobic exercises has been utilized to improve Pulmonary functions in COPD patients. But the sample size of these studies was small and participants were ventilated patients, hence not targeting the diaphragm. Our study shall evaluate the impact of PNF technique combined with aerobic training on the Pulmonary function of COPD patients in the clinical setting.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Both male & female participants.
• Diagnosed COPD patients
• Age 35-60years
• Ratio of forced expiratory volume in first second & forced vital capacity(FEV1/FVC <0.7,30%<FEV1<80%
• Stable clinical condition.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serious conditions with require supplementary oxygen or ventilator/support devices.
• COPD exacerbation within last 4weeks
• Patients with recent chest wall trauma, surgery or deformity.
• Patient with neurological, psychological, musculoskeletal, or cardiac medical history.
• Pulmonary disease with physical impairment.
• Inability to follow the pulmonary rehabilitation program.