Which Respiratory Training is More Effective in Individuals with Ankylosing Spondylitis: 360-Degree Expansion Diaphragm Exercises or Standard Diaphragm Exercises? Randomized Controlled Trial

Authors : Barış Gürpınar, Seda Yakıt Yeşilyurt, Özkan Urak, İsmail Sarı
Pages : 477-489
Doi:10.61399/ikcusbfd.1693424
View : 35 | Download : 71
Publication Date : 2025-09-30
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Objective: Respiratory complications, though often asymptomatic, are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). Despite the proven benefits of exercise in managing AS, limited evidence exists comparing conventional diaphragmatic breathing to novel, multidimensional approaches targeting full thoracic expansion. This study aimed to address this gap by evaluating the effectiveness of standard versus 360-degree expansion diaphragm breathing exercises delivered with sensor-based feedback in improving respiratory function, disease activity, and physical capacity in AS. Material and Methods: Fifty individuals diagnosed with AS were randomized to either a standard diaphragm breathing group (DG) or a 360-degree expansion diaphragm group (360DG). Both groups received supervised exercise interventions twice weekly for six weeks. Outcomes included pulmonary function tests, maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP/MEP), and AS-specific indices. Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in functional indices and respiratory parameters, with no statistically significant intergroup differences (p>0.05). Notably, FEV1/FVC improved in the DG group (p=0.017), while FVC showed a significant increase in the 360DG group (p=0.007). Respiratory muscle strength (MIP and MEP) improved significantly in both groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: This randomized controlled trial is among the first to evaluate 360-degree expansive diaphragm breathing in AS. The findings suggest that both standard and sensor-guided breathing exercises are safe and effective in improving respiratory and functional outcomes. These results underscore the clinical relevance of incorporating tailored respiratory training into rehabilitation programs for AS, offering physiotherapists and clinicians flexible, evidence-based strategies to improve patient care. Keywords: Functional capacity, mobility, respiration, rheumatic disease
Keywords : fonksiyonel kapasite, mobilite, romatizmal hastalık, solunum

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