To Compare the Effectiveness of Neurophysiological Facilitation Technique Versus Pursed Lip Breathing Exercise to Improve Lung Function among Geriatric COPD Patients

S. Aravind, M. Grace Sharmila

Abstract: Background of the Study: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a common and progressive disorder that is characterized by respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation due to the abnormalities of the airway or alveoli. In this condition, the lung parenchyma gets damaged causing the changes in structure and results in collapse of airways. Neurophysiological facilitation technique and pursed lip breathing exercise can improve the lung functions. NPF of respiration is the selective external proprioceptive and tactile stimuli that produce reflective movement response in the ventilator. PLB has been advocated to reduce respiratory rate and increase oxygen saturation. It is maneuver that is frequently taught to patients with COPD. Materials and Methodology: This is a comparative study conducted at the Physiotherapy OPD of Tagore medical college & hospital, Chennai. the sample size was 30 subjects, and the duration is 5 weeks (4days per week and 20 sessions). The inclusion criteria was: Patients previously diagnosed geriatric COPD patients of both the genders, age between 60 - 80 years. The exclusion criteria were any recent sternum and rib fracture, coronary heart disease, recent surgery like rib fracture, smoking and alcoholic, pulmonary hypertension. Result: Neurophysiological Facilitation Technique shows significant improvement in mean value at p<0.001.

Keywords: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Neurophysiological facilitation, Pursed lip breathing, incentive spirometer, peak expiratory flow meter