Daily Singing Practice as a Means of Improving Pulmonary Function and Quality of Life in Emphysema Patients

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine if 10 minutes of singing every day might lead to improved pulmonary function and quality of life in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Singing requires a controlled and precise use of respiratory musculature suggesting its daily use as a rehabilitation tool could help reduce respiratory symptoms. Materials and Methods: This was a quasi-experimental pre–post test designed study lasting 12 weeks. The Springfield Committee for Research Involving Human Subjects approved the study, and all patients were provided written informed consent. Measurements were taken for actual and perceived respiratory function and quality of life. There were 25 patients who completed the study. All patients were enrolled in a rehabilitation program at a Phase 3 status. Patients were given an instructor-led demonstration as well as a pamphlet that guided them through a series of breathing and vocal warm-ups which, upon completion, they followed with singing a song. This process took approximately five minutes and was done morning and evening. Results: Results for the study showed no mean changes beyond standard deviation in any of the measurements taken both in lung function and in quality of life. However, there was a statistically significant decrease in the Borg fatigue rating with a mean at baseline of 8.88+/-3.76 and 7.60+/-2.61 at follow-up (p=0.04).