Effect of thoracic mobility and respiratory exercises program on chest expansion and functional capacity in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: rural community-based study

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is associated with reduced pulmonary function, decreased thoracic mobility, and impaired functional capacity in older adults. Respiratory muscle weakness and reduced chest wall mobility may contribute to breathlessness and decreased exercise tolerance.

 Objective: To evaluate the effect of thoracic mobility and respiratory exercises on chest expansion, functional capacity, and breathlessness among older adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus residing in rural communities.

 Methodology: A community-based pre-experimental study was conducted among 60 older adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Chest expansion was assessed at axillary, nipple, and xiphisternum levels. Functional capacity was evaluated using the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and dyspnea was assessed using the Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale before and after the intervention.

 Results: Following intervention, chest expansion improved at all measured levels. Axillary chest expansion increased from 3.40 ± 0.49 cm to 4.28 ± 0.56 cm, nipple level expansion from 4.22 ± 0.61 cm to 4.90 ± 0.75 cm, and xiphisternum expansion from 3.55 ± 0.53 cm to 4.38 ± 0.58 cm. Functional capacity assessed using the 6MWT showed a mean walking distance of 425.57 ± 106.13 meters. Borg Dyspnea scores indicated moderate exertional breathlessness during activity.

 Conclusion: Thoracic mobility and respiratory exercises improved chest expansion and functional exercise capacity among older adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and may be beneficial in community-based physiotherapy rehabilitation programs.