Effect of Incentive Spirometry on Cardiac Autonomic Functions in Normal Healthy Subjects

Objective of the study was to examine the effects of Incentive Spirometry on cardiac autonomic functions in normal healthy subjects in 18–25 years age group.

30 subjects (n=15 in Study group and n=15 in Control group) were included in this study. The duration of study was 3 months. Primary outcome measures included cardiac autonomic function tests. Outcome measures were recorded before and 3 months after the study.

3 months practice of Incentive Spirometry resulted in statistically significant change (p < 0.05) in following parameters - Basal heart rate, Immediate maximum heart rate, Steady state heart rate, Steady State heart rate (time in seconds) during heart rate response to Standing test; Minimum heart rate and Deep Breathing Difference (DBD) during heart rate response to Deep Breathing test.

3 months practice of Incentive Spirometry changes autonomic function response.