Abstract |
This study aimed to investigate the effects of single-segmental breathing exercises on rib cage expansion,
diaphragm movement, and slow vital capacity in individuals with a thoracic breathing pattern. Methods: This study
included 20 students (10 male and 10 female students) from S University in Busan , dividing them into an experimental
group (n=10) and a control group (n=10). All the participants had a thoracic breathing pattern, and none of them had
any neurological, musculoskeletal, or respiratory diseases that might confound the results. The thoracic breathing pattern
was examined using the Hi-Lo test, while the degree of rib cage expansion was measured using a tape measure.
Diaphragmatic movements during quiet breathing and deep breathing were measured using an ultrasound device (MicrUs
Scanner, TELEMED, Lithuania). The slow vital capacity was measured using a digital spirometer (Pony FX, COSMED Inc.,
Italy). Single-segmental breathing exercises were performed in 3 sets of 20 repetitions per set. A 60-s rest time was given
between sets. Results: In the experimental group, the rib cage expansion (p<.05) and diaphragmatic movements during
basic breathing (p<.05) increased after segmental breathing exercises. Conversely, no change was observed in the control
group. Regarding the change pattern, the rib cage expansion was greater in the experimental group than in the control
group (p<.05). Diaphragmatic movements increased in the experimental group during both quiet (p<.05) and deep (p<.05)
breathing, whereas it tended to decrease in the control group. No statistically significant change was noted in the slow
vital capacity in both groups. Conclusion: The results showed that single-segmental breathing exercises increased the
rib cage expansion and diaphragmatic movements but did not increase the slow vital capacity. |