Abstract |
This study aimed to determine how a diaphragm breathing exercise using a DBD (DiP belt) affected diaphragm thickness compared with the general diaphragm breathing exercise (GBD) in healthy adults. Methods: Twenty healthy adults (15 men, 5 women) participated in this study, and they were randomly assigned to a DBD group and a GBD group. Each participant had to push their abdomen outward as much as possible when inspiration, hold it for 5 s, and then expire 10 times in total. The thickness of the diaphragm was measured by ultrasonography before and after the diaphragm breathing exercise, and the diaphragm contraction pressure was measured using a DiP Belt. Results: The DBD group showed significant differences in the diaphragm contraction pressure, end-inspiratory diaphragm thickness, and diaphragmatic thickening fraction. No significant differences were found in all variables in the GDB group. A significant difference was noted in the contraction pressure between the two groups; however, no significant difference was observed in the diaphragm thickness and diaphragmatic thickening fraction. Conclusion: Diaphragm breathing exercise using a DiP Belt has been confirmed to affect the thickness and contraction pressure of the diaphragm and is believed to be useful in improving respiratory function. |