Comparison of the Effect of Incentive Spirometry and Active Chest Mobilization Techniques on Pulmonary Function and Functional Capacity in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. The most prevalent form of diabetes is type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which accounts for 90–95% of all occurrences of diabetes mellitus, and therefore of primary interest. Shah and Sonawane posit that the pulmonary function abnormalities reported in T2DM patients is usually associated with chronic hyperglycemia. In patients with T2DM, the function of the inspiratory muscles is usually observed to be compromised (decreased strength and/or endurance) which results in poor exercise tolerance and reduced functional capacity. Aim of the study: To compare the effect of active chest mobilization techniques and incentive spirometry on pulmonary function and functional capacity in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: Patients were randomly allocated in 2 groups, Group A and Group B with 30 patients each. Measurement of all outcome measures (PP, HbA1c, FVC, FEV1, PEFR, HRQoL and 6-MWT were recorded. Group A was instructed to perform 15 minute session of incentive spirometry twice a day, along with diaphragmatic breathing exercise (10 repetitions) for 6 days per week. Self-Chest mobilization exercises was performed by Group B for three days per week for 6 weeks along with diaphragmatic breathing exercise (10 reps) , twice a day. The obtained data were analyzed using paired and unpaired t test. Results: After intervention, Group A (incentive spirometry) showed significant improvement in PP(Post Prandial) blood glucose level and FEV1 and Group B showed significant improvement in 6-MWT. Conclusion: Both interventions (incentive spirometry and ACMT) were effective in the effectiveness of the two interventions across most measures after 6 weeks.