EFFECTIVENESS OF GRADED ABDOMINAL EXERCISES ON PFT IN POST MENOPAUSAL WOMEN

Abstract

Background: Postmenopausal women commonly experience reductions in pulmonary function, muscle strength, and core stability due to hormonal and age-related changes, which may affect overall functional performance and quality of life.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured exercise program on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR), abdominal muscle strength, and core endurance in postmenopausal women.

Methods: 60 postmenopausal women were included in this study. Baseline measurements were recorded using PEFR, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) for abdominal strength, and the plank hold test for core endurance. Participants underwent a structured physiotherapy program comprising breathing exercises and core strengthening exercises over a specified duration. Post-intervention assessments were conducted using the same outcome measures. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-test and chi-square test, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: A statistically significant improvement in PEFR was observed following the intervention (p < 0.001), indicating enhanced pulmonary function. Participants also demonstrated improvement in abdominal muscle strength, with progression to higher MMT grades. Additionally, core endurance improved as evidenced by increased plank holding time. All outcome measures showed significant enhancement post-intervention.

Conclusion: The structured exercise program was effective in improving pulmonary function, abdominal muscle strength, and core endurance in postmenopausal women. These findings support the role of physiotherapy interventions in improving functional capacity and promoting overall health in this population.