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Comparison of Box Breathing and Rhythmic Breathing Techniques in Patients With Asthma
Sponsor: Riphah International University
Summary
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that can cause breathing difficulties, reduced lung function, and poor sleep quality. Breathing exercises are increasingly used as non-pharmacological interventions to improve respiratory symptoms and overall well-being in individuals with asthma. This study aims to compare the effects of two breathing techniques, Box Breathing and Rhythmic Breathing, on dyspnea (breathlessness), pulmonary function, and quality of sleep in patients with asthma. Participants with asthma will be randomly assigned to receive either Box Breathing or Rhythmic Breathing exercises in addition to standard care. Both interventions will be performed three times per week for eight weeks. The primary outcomes of this study include changes in dyspnea severity, pulmonary function measured by spirometry, and sleep quality assessed using validated questionnaires. The findings of this study may help determine which breathing technique is more effective and provide evidence for incorporating structured breathing exercises into asthma management programs.
Official title: Comparative Effects of Box and Rhythmic Breathing Techniques on Dyspnea, Pulmonary Functions, and Quality of Sleep Among Asthmatic Patients
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 40 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
36
Start Date
2026-07
Completion Date
2026-12-10
Last Updated
2026-07-21
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Box Breathing
Participants assigned to the Box Breathing intervention received a structured breathing exercise protocol following standardized baseline respiratory care. The Box Breathing technique consisted of inhalation for 4 seconds, breath holding for 4 seconds, exhalation for 4 seconds, and a second breath hold for 4 seconds (4-4-4-4 pattern). The intervention was administered for 20 minutes per session, three sessions per week, for eight weeks. Short rest periods were permitted after every 5-6 breathing cycles as needed. The intervention was performed in a quiet environment and aimed to improve respiratory control, reduce dyspnea, enhance ventilatory efficiency, and promote autonomic regulation.
Rhythmic Breathing
Participants assigned to the Rhythmic Breathing intervention received a structured breathing exercise protocol following standardized baseline respiratory care. The Rhythmic Breathing technique consisted of a controlled breathing pattern using a 4:6 ratio, with inhalation through the nose for 4 seconds and exhalation through the mouth for 6 seconds. The intervention was administered for 20 minutes per session, three sessions per week, for eight weeks. Short rest periods were provided every 6-7 minutes as needed. The intervention was designed to promote respiratory efficiency, improve autonomic balance, reduce dyspnea, and enhance pulmonary function and sleep quality.
Locations (1)
Ittefaq Hospital and Ghurki Trust Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan