title: Deep diaphragmatic breathing: rehabilitation exercises for the asthmatic patient.
abstract: A new diaphragmatic breathing technique practiced without the aid of a physical corset is outlined, and the findings from a study of its application in the respiratory rehabilitation of asthmatic patients are presented. Sixty-seven asthmatic adults randomly assigned to either deep diaphragmatic breathing training, physical exercise training, or a waiting list control group participated in a 16-week program. Deep diaphragmatic training resulted in significant reductions in medication use and in the intensity of asthmatic symptoms. Importantly, a nearly 300% increase in time spent in physical activities also resulted from deep diaphragmatic training. A follow-up at two months found many patients had returned to earlier medication levels and sedentary habits. A strengthened musculature can replace the need for a physical aid in this respiratory habilitation; adherence to its use may require individually-tailored encouragement.
authors.affiliation: University of Ottawa, Canada.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Girodo
authors.forename: K A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Ekstrand
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Metivier
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001249:Asthma / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001945:Breathing Exercises; D003964:Diaphragm / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012132:Respiratory Muscles / Q000502:physiology