| Abstract |
The present study aimed to investigate changes in pulmonary compliance according to thoracic mobilization
techniques in smokers. Methods: Forty smokers were block-randomized into two groups based on exercise type
(general and modified thoracic mobilization). The interventions were administered thrice a week over a four-week period.
The respiratory patterns, pulmonary function parameters (e.g., forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume in 1
s (FEV₁), and FEV₁/FVC ratio) and chest circumference of participants were measured before and after intervention. The
respiratory patterns were assessed using the manual assessment of respiratory motion (MARM). Results: The modified
thoracic mobilization group demonstrated significant decreases in thoracic breathing (MARM-AC) and increases in
diaphragmatic breathing (MARM-BC) (p<.05). No significant differences were observed in the FVC, FEV₁, FEV₁/FVC ratio,
and chest circumference between groups. However, the FVC, FEV₁, and chest circumference were significantly increased
in both groups (p<.05). The FEV₁/FVC ratio remained above 70% across all groups, indicating preserved pulmonary
function. Conclusion: Modified thoracic mobilization is effective for improving respiratory pattern quality, and both
types of thoracic mobilization were more advantageous for enhancing pulmonary compliance. Tailoring respiratory
exercise strategies based on therapeutic objectives may contribute to optimized interventions for smokers, older adults,
and patients with cardiopulmonary conditions. |