The effect of the practice of deep breathing exercises on the functional status of patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

This experimental study was conducted to determine if the daily practice of deep breathing exercises would have an influence on the functional capacity of patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The purpose of the study was to determine within the conceptual framework of Orem's self-care theory whether specific relationships exist between the practice of daily deep breathing exercises and (a) ability to perform activities of daily living, (b) grip strength, (c) pain level, (d) self-assessment of condition, (e) degree of limitation, and (f) satisfaction with medical condition. Of the 32 participants who completed the study, 16 practiced deep breathing exercises on a daily basis while the other 16 were not encouraged to use any coping techniques during the study. The researcher used the Modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (MHAQ), a widely used self-report instrument, as well as the Visual Analogue Pain Scale. The grip strength was measured by a grip meter. The t test was computed for each variable. There were no statistically significant differences between the experimental group and the control group, but some important descriptive data were reported. The researcher concluded that more research should be conducted with larger samples over a longer period of time.