Effect of incentive spirometer exercise combined with physical therapy on pulmonary functions in children with cerebral palsy

Background/Aims Children with cerebral palsy have poorer pulmonary function than average healthy people because they typically have decreased mobility of the chest wall, deviation of chest wall structure and weak respiratory muscles. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the incentive spirometer exercise on pulmonary functions in children with cerebral palsy, and the effects of the incentive spirometer exercise according to Gross Motor Function Classification System level. Methods A total of 50 patients with spastic cerebral palsy aged between 8 and 12 years were randomly divided into two groups: the study group and the control group. Both groups received a physiotherapy exercise programme with the aim of enhancing gross motor and respiratory function for 60 minutes a day, 3 days a week for 8 weeks. The study group received the additional incentive spirometer exercise. Both groups had pulmonary function testing before the study (baseline), halfway through the intervention (at 4 weeks) and then at the end of the intervention (after 8 weeks). Results Significant improvements in forced expiratory volume in 1 second, forced vital capacity and maximal mid-expiratory flow were found in the study group, but not in the control group. Conclusions The incentive spirometer exercise, along with physiotherapy exercises, are effective in improving pulmonary functions than physiotherapy exercises alone.