| Abstract |
This study aimed to investigate the effects of feedback-assisted lower rib cage expansion exercises on
diaphragmatic excursion and slow vital capacity in individuals exhibiting thoracic and abdominal breathing patterns.
Methods: This study included undergraduate students in their 20s enrolled at S University in Busan. They were assigned
to either the thoracic breathing group (n=10; 5 men and 5 women) or the abdominal breathing group (n=10; 6 men and
4 women). To examine the effects of the feedback-assisted lower rib cage expansion exercise, diaphragmatic excursion
was assessed using an ultrasound scanner (MicrUs, TELEMED, Lithuania), and slow vital capacity was measured using a
digital spirometer (Pony FX, COSMED, Italy). To strengthen the diaphragm, a lower rib cage expansion exercise was
performed using a dip belt. Results: Diaphragmatic excursion showed a nonsignificant increase in the thoracic breathing
group, whereas it significantly increased in the abdominal breathing group. As regards slow vital capacity, the tidal
volume significantly increased in both groups. The inspiratory reserve volume showed no change in the thoracic breathing
group but significantly decreased in the abdominal breathing group, reflecting different patterns of change between the
groups. Inspiratory capacity significantly increased in the thoracic breathing group but exhibited a nonsignificant decrease
in the abdominal breathing group, demonstrating different patterns. The expiratory reserve volume remained unchanged
in both groups. Vital capacity significantly increased in the thoracic breathing group but significantly decreased in the
abdominal breathing group, reflecting divergent patterns between the groups. Conclusion: Feedback-assisted lower rib
cage expansion exercises were more effective in improving diaphragmatic excursion and slow vital capacity in the thoracic
than in the abdominal breathing group. These findings indicate that feedback-assisted lower rib cage expansion may serve
as a useful intervention for improving pulmonary function in individuals exhibiting a thoracic breathing pattern. |