Effect of Respiratory Muscle Stretch Gymnastics on Pain, Chest Expansion, Pulmonary Functions and Functional Capacity in Phase 1 Post-Operative CABG Patients

Abstract

Background: Post operative complications after CABG are a major source of morbidity & mortality& increases hospital stay. Pain level which is experienced with an activity after CABG reduces the functional capacity & QOL. In this study we aimed to effectively reduce post CABG pain and improve respiratory functions in phase 1 post CABG patients with the help of Respiratory Muscle Stretch Gymnastics (RMSG) technique. Objective: To study the efficacy of combine Phase 1 cardiac rehabilitation & RMSG11 in post CABG patients with pain & impaired pulmonary function in phase 1 post operative CABG patients. Methods: In a pre test post test experimental study the subjects were randomly assigned to two groups Group A (n=15) performed conventional cardiac rehabilitation and RMSG 3 times/day from 3 rd POD to 7 th POD of phase 1 cardiac rehabilitation. Group B (n=15) performed only conventional cardiac rehabilitation for same frequency and number of days as above. Following outcome measures PCP, chest expansion, FEV1 and FEV6 were measured by numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), measuring tape and portable spirometer, respectively on 3 rd POD and at 7 th POD. Results: There were significant difference of pain intensity occurs in between group (p=0.001). The other respiratory parameters like chest expansion and pulmonary function test did not show any significant change with RMSG. (P> 0.05) Comparison of mean six minute walk distance at the time of discharge was higher in group A (299 ± 16.48 meter) than group B (292.04 ± 13.17 meter), but it was not significant (p =0.185). Conclusion: The study result shows that inclusion of RMSG in phase 1 cardiac rehabilitation can significantly reduces the post CABG pain and muscle ache around the scapula, and may improves exercise participation of patients as pain reduces.