Comparison of Respiratory Muscle Activations During Dyspnea Reduction Positions in Individuals

Chronic and progressive dyspnea is the most characteristic symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. There are studies in the literature showing that electromyography activations of respiratory muscles increase in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and that the severity of the perceived shortness of breath is associated with muscle activation. However, no study has been found comparing respiratory muscle activations during pursed lip breathing and normal breathing in the dyspnea reduction positions and supine position used in the treatment and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of different dyspnea reduction positions on respiratory muscle activations separately, to compare respiratory muscle activation during normal breathing, respiratory control and pursed lip breathing during these different positions, and to classify muscle activations according to the severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.