Progressive Muscle Relaxation and Deep Breathing Exercises in Patients With COPD

Overview

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing exercises on fatigue and sleep quality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A total of 90 patients were assigned to three groups: a progressive muscle relaxation exercise group, a deep breathing exercise group, and a control group. Participants in the intervention groups were taught their assigned exercises individually and were instructed to practice them daily at home for 8 weeks. The control group received no study intervention during this period. Fatigue and sleep quality were assessed before the intervention and at the end of the 8-week study period.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory condition that can negatively affect patients' physical and psychological well-being. Fatigue and impaired sleep quality are common symptoms that may adversely affect daily functioning and quality of life. Non-pharmacological interventions that can be easily practiced by patients may contribute to symptom management. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the effects of progressive muscle relaxation and deep breathing exercises on fatigue and sleep quality in patients with COPD. The study included 90 patients with COPD who were randomly assigned to three parallel groups, with 30 participants in each group: a progressive muscle relaxation exercise group, a deep breathing exercise group, and a control group. Randomization was performed using random numbers generated through the Random Integer Generator on Random.org, and group assignment was conducted by an independent researcher. Due to the nature of the interventions, blinding was not applied. Participants assigned to the progressive muscle relaxation group received individual training on progressive muscle relaxation exercises. The initial training lasted approximately 30-40 minutes. Participants were provided with relaxation exercise audio recordings for home practice and were instructed to perform the exercises every morning for 8 weeks. Weekly telephone contact was maintained during the intervention period. Participants assigned to the deep breathing exercise group received individual practical training in pursed-lip breathing exercises. The training lasted approximately 20-25 minutes, and participants practiced the technique under guidance to ensure that they could perform it correctly. They were instructed to perform the breathing exercises every morning at home for 8 weeks. Participants assigned to the control group received no study intervention during the 8-week study period. Fatigue and sleep quality were evaluated at baseline and at the end of 8 weeks using the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma Fatigue Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, respectively.