Effect of Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Respiratory Parameters in Upper Extremity Burns

The Effect of Pulmonary Rehabilitation on Respiratory Parameters in Individuals With Upper Extremity Burns

This study will evaluate the effects of a pulmonary rehabilitation program on breathing function, respiratory muscle activity, respiratory muscle thickness, and functional capacity in adults with upper extremity burns. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a pulmonary rehabilitation group or a control group. The pulmonary rehabilitation group will receive respiratory muscle training together with upper extremity aerobic exercises, while the control group will receive a conventional exercise program. Assessments will be performed before the intervention, at week 3, and after the 6-week intervention period. The results may help improve rehabilitation approaches for people with upper extremity burns.

Burn injuries may lead to physical limitations, functional loss, and respiratory problems. In individuals with upper extremity burns, pain, scar tissue, and reduced mobility of the shoulder girdle and chest wall may affect breathing mechanics and respiratory muscle performance. These changes may reduce ventilatory capacity and functional capacity during daily activities.

This randomized controlled clinical study will investigate the effects of a pulmonary rehabilitation program in adults with upper extremity burns. The study will be conducted at the Burn Center of Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar City Hospital. Adults aged 18 to 65 years who had an upper extremity burn injury 3 to 12 months before enrollment and who meet the eligibility criteria will be included.

A total of 64 participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: a pulmonary rehabilitation group and a control group. The pulmonary rehabilitation group will receive respiratory muscle training combined with upper extremity aerobic exercises. The control group will receive a conventional exercise program. The intervention period will last 6 weeks.

Participants will be assessed at three time points: before the intervention, at week 3, and after the 6-week intervention. Respiratory function will be assessed using spirometry, including forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in one second, and maximum voluntary ventilation. Respiratory muscle activity will be evaluated using surface electromyography. Respiratory muscle thickness and diaphragm excursion will be assessed using ultrasonography. Functional capacity will be measured with the 6-minute walk test.

The study aims to determine whether pulmonary rehabilitation can improve respiratory function, respiratory muscle activity, respiratory muscle morphology, and functional capacity in individuals with upper extremity burns.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 to 65 years
• History of upper extremity burn injury 3 to 12 months before enrollment
• Clinically stable condition, including oxygen saturation greater than 92% and cardiac stability
• Ability to communicate and follow instructions, with no hearing, cognitive, or motor communication impairment
• Voluntary agreement to participate in the study and signing the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Burns involving the lower extremity, trunk, or head and neck regions
• History of chronic pulmonary, cardiac, neurological, or musculoskeletal disease
• Dependence on mechanical ventilation or respiratory support
• Severe psychiatric disorder or cognitive impairment
• Pregnancy