Effectiveness of Intercostal Stretch on Chest Expansion and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate

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Introduction: The intercostal muscles play a role in moving the ribs upward and outward. This action leads to an increase in the antero-posterior diameter of the thoracic cavity. In respiratory physiotherapy, manual stretching techniques are widely used to improve lung function Objective: To determine the effect of Intercostal stretch on chest expansion and peak expiratory flow rate. Methods: A total of 100 subjects were recruited according to inclusion criteria i.e.age group 60-70 years, both genders and written informed consent was taken. Assessment and evaluation of participants was done. Chest expansion was measured and then after 2 minutes rest peak expiratory flow rate was taken using peak flow meter before the intervention. The stretch was applied in sync with the patient’s exhalation and held while they continued breathing normally. As the stretch was sustained, there was a gradual increase in inspiratory movements in the area being stretched. Each subject received intercostal stretching for 20 days, with 5 repetitions per session and a 20-second hold on both the right and left sides. After the 20-day period, chest expansion and peak expiratory flow measurements were recorded. Results: By applying Paired t-test for Pre-test and Post-test values of chest expansion and peal expiratory flow rate p-value obtained was < 0.01, which was statistically significant. This suggests that Intercostal stretch is effective in improving chest expansion and peak expiratory flow rate. Conclusion: The study concludes that there was significant improvement in chest expansion and peak expiratory flow rate among the healthy older adults who underwent intercostal stretch.