Efficacy Of Energy Conservation Techniques On Pulmonary Functions In Children With Cystic Fibrosis

Abstract

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) has a wide-ranging impact on health, but the lungs in particular suffer. It produces fatigue and shortness of breath, both of which interfere with ADL performance; patient training in energy conservation techniques (ECTs) may help improve ADL tolerance and performance. Objectives: The purpose of this research was to determine if patients with CF might lower their energy use during an activity by practicing educational ECTs after a 12-week ECT teaching period. Methods: Forty CF children, (24 boys and 16 girls), with ages range from six to eight years were randomly divided into 2 groups: content group and study group. Pulmonary functions were assessed by spirometry before and after 12 weeks of treatment using forced expiratory volume (FEV1) which measures how much air a person can forcefully exhale in the first second of forced expiration. The forced expiratory flow 25 (FEF 25) test assesses the rate of airflow when between 25% and 72% of the air in the lungs has been expelled, providing insight into how clear or obstructed the tiny airways are. The third pulmonary function test was forced vital capacity (FVC) how much air a someone can expel quickly as well as forcefully after taking a deep inhalation. Control group received pulmonary rehabilitation programe (postural drainage, breathing exercises study group received energy conservation programe in addition to the traditional pulmonary rehabilitation, postural drainage, pursed-lip breathing and an ergonomic way of performing activities & the used of assistive devices. Results: When comparing the mean values of the two groups before and after treatment, there was a statistically significant increase in all of the measured parameters. After treatment, however, a statistically significant difference favouring the energy-conservation group developed. Conclusion: Findings from the data suggest that the energy conservation techniques were beneficial to improve lung function in children with CF.