Original article
English
Alagiathiravenkadam Ilayaraja, Ali Shawesh
Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medical Technology Al-Fateh University Tripoli, Libya
JMJ 2010, Vol.10, No.2:106-110
Abstract
Background: COPD is a clinical set of symptoms which is characterized by excess of mucous secretions, dyspnoea, cough, reduced pulmonary function, and decreased gaseous exchange, in our study we used autogenic drainage and postural drainage techniques to clear the excess secretions, and improve pulmonary function (FEV1, FVC) in COPD patients. Aims and Objectives of The Study: To find out whether the autogenic drainage or postural drainage treatment technique is effective in improving pulmonary function in COPD patients; to find out the effectiveness of clearing secretions while allowing the patient ‘greater independence’ in a home programme. Basic Procedure: 30 stable COPD patients were included using a simple random sampling method and visual analog dyspnoea scale was used to fulfil the inclusion criteria. The subjects were divided into two groups with 15patients in each group. Pre-test measurements of (FEV1, FVC) were analyzed through computerized spirometry for both groups. The first group (AD) of 15 subjects were taught about autogenic drainage and the second group (AD) of 15 were taught about postural drainage with percussion. Clear instructions and demonstrations were given to the patients as well as family members about the technique to perform at home for 20 days, twice daily. After 20 days of the home programme post-test measurement of (FEV1, FVC) was again analyzed through computerized spirometry. Results: Mean difference, paired t test value, post test score showed significant difference in both groups. Comparatively the (AD) group showed a higher difference in improving pulmonary function (FEV1, FVC) in COPD patients. Conclusion: The study concluded that autogenic drainage can be performed without assistance, it helps move secretions from lower to higher levels, it improves the breathing pattern, is much less time consuming, and is an effective home programme technique.
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Link/DOI: http://www.jmj.org.ly/images/stories/summer2010/106.pdf