Immediate and Prolonged Effects of Breathing Exercises on Pain, Quality of Life and Functional Disability in Patients of Upper Cross Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Upper cross syndrome is a relatively prevalent musculoskeletal disorder among the general population due to increased usage of smart gadgets and poor postural habits.

Objective: To determine the immediate and prolonged effect of breathing exercise on pain, functional disability, and quality of life parameters in the population with the upper cross syndrome.

Methodology: A randomized control trial study was conducted at Jinnah Memorial Trust Hospital Gujranwala. The duration of the study was 15 months (Feb-2021 to Jan-2022). A sample of 76 upper cross syndrome enrolled and equally (n=38) randomized into the control group (regular physical therapy treatment) and experimental group (regular physical therapy treatment + breathing exercises). The treatment effect was investigated on the outcomes including pain (NPRS), functional disability (NDI), and Quality of life (SF-36). Treatment time was a total of 4 weeks; outcomes variables were compared at baseline vs after 1st session, for immediate effects, and Baseline vs after 4th week for prolonged effects. Data was analyzed with SPSS 21.

Results: The mean age of 76 participants was 32.51 + 6.33 years (4 males (5.3%) and 72 females (94.7%)). For both, immediate effects NPRS, NDI, and SF-36 domains (general health, general health perception, physical functioning, role limitation due to physical health, emotional health, role limitation due to emotional health, energy, and bodily pain) were significantly improved (p<0.05), in the experimental group received breathing exercises added into regular physical therapy plan as compared to control group. Within group analysis revealed both interventions are effective in improving the mentioned outcomes (P<0.05) 

Conclusion: Breathing exercises are safe and effective intervention in cervical pain management and functional disability of upper cross syndrome in terms of both immediate effects and long-term effects. Furthermore, inculcating the breathing exercises in the management program of the upper cross syndrome can enhance the parameters of the quality of life.

Keywords: Breathing exercises, cervical pain, disability, forward head posture, upper cross syndrome