Comparative Effects of Buteyko Versus Pilates Breathing Combined With McKenzie Neck Exercises on Lung Function and Chest Expansion in Asthmatic Patients With Forward Head Posture

Conditions studied

Asthma

About this study

Asthma is characterized by airway inflammation and hyperinflation that flattens the diaphragm and increases reliance on accessory neck muscles. Chronic overuse shortens these muscles and promotes forward head posture (FHP), which in turn compromises rib-cage motion and respiratory mechanics. Correcting FHP alongside breathing retraining may therefore improve lung function and symptoms in asthma. This interventional, parallel-group study investigates the combined effects of McKenzie neck exercises with two different breathing approaches on lung function, chest expansion, posture, and quality of life in adults with asthma. Participants are allocated to two groups for a 4-week program: Group A performs McKenzie neck exercises plus Pilates-based breathing; Group B performs McKenzie neck exercises plus Buteyko breathing.

Interventions

• Procedure: Pilates Breathing Combined with McKenzie Neck Exercises — Participants in this group will undergo a four-week intervention program combining McKenzie neck exercises with Pilates-based breathing techniques. The McKenzie exercises will be performed at an intensity of five repetitions per exercise during the first two weeks, progressing to ten repetitions per exercise in the third and fourth weeks. Pilates breathing will begin with two sets of ten repetitions in the first and second weeks, progress to three sets of ten repetitions in the third week, and further increase to four sets of ten repetitions in the fourth week. The intervention will be carried out three days per week on alternate days.
• Procedure: McKenzie Neck Exercises with Buteyko Breathing — Participants in this group will undergo a four-week intervention program combining McKenzie neck exercises with Pilates-based breathing techniques. The McKenzie exercises will be performed at an intensity of five repetitions per exercise during the first two weeks, progressing to ten repetitions per exercise in the third and fourth weeks. Pilates breathing will begin with two sets of ten repetitions in the first and second weeks, progress to three sets of ten repetitions in the third week, and further increase to four sets of ten repetitions in the fourth week. The intervention will be carried out three days per week on alternate days

Primary outcomes

• Chest Expansion (4 weeks)
• Lung Functions (04 weeks)

Eligibility information

Study locations

• Foundation University College of Physical Therapy, Islamabad, 44000, Islamabad, 44000 Pakistan