Efficacy of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Breathing Exercises on Chest Mobility, Trunk Muscles, and Thoracic Kyphosis: A Randomized Controlled 6-Week Trial

Abstract

Objectives: Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) approach evaluates and activates the spinal stabilizers to optimize the performance of posture and respiratory system. This study investigated the effects of DNS breathing exercises on upper and lower chest wall mobility (UCM and LCM), trunk extensor endurance, and thoracic kyphosis in a group of sedentary students with poor posture. Methods: In this randomized, controlled 6-week trial, 52 participants were randomly divided into two groups: a DNS breathing exercise group (n=26) and a control group (n=26). First, a pre-test of the UCM, LCM, trunk muscle endurance and thoracic kyphosis was done on each participant in random order. DNS breathing exercise protocol (six times a week for six weeks) was implemented and after its completion, all post-test parameters were taken. Descriptive statistical and the paired-sample t test were used to analyze the obtained data. Results: Significant improvements were observed in the post-test compared with pre-test in DNS breathing exercise group in UCM (6.2±1.6 vs 4.4±0.9 cm, P<0.001), LCM (7.7±1.7 vs 5.5±1.0 cm, P<0.001), trunk muscle endurance (110.1±33.5 vs 88.7±34.1 s, P<0.001), and thoracic kyphosis (146.9±5.5 vs 142.7±4.0 degree, P<0.001). In contrast, the change in these parameters in the control group was not statistically significant. Discussion: DNS breathing exercise with a focus on the integrated spinal stabilizing system and breathing techniques is an effective protocol to significantly improve UCM and LCM, trunk muscle endurance, and thoracic kyphosis. It is suggested that DNS breathing exercises be introduced to improve chest mobility and posture and provide physiological stabilization for the overall health and performance of student

Six Weeks Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) Training in Obese Postpartum Women With Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…After some practice time, patients can indirectly distinguish their position without knowing its anatomical location with awareness and correction (Frank et al, 2013;Kolář et al, 2009;Kolar & Kobesova, 2010;Milic ´, 2020). Movement of the rib cage is a crucial factor in airflow during both inspiration and expiration stem in mechanical characteristics of the rib cage and muscle tension (Milic ´, 2020;Mirtz, 2001;Mohammad Rahimi et al, 2020).…”

“…During the exercise, they paid particular attention to the stereotype of inhalation and exhalation. The participants were encouraged to expand the lower chest cavity and the whole abdominal wall proportionally during inhalation and maintain adequate equivalent tension of all abdominal wall sections during exhalation as described by the DNS manual (Canales et al, 2017;Davidek & Andel, 2018;Frank et al, 2013;Mahdieh et al, 2020;Mohammad Rahimi et al, 2020). Supervised exercises were performed on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday and home-based exercises were performed on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday.…”

Effects of percutaneous vertebroplasty on respiratory parameters in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures

“…The chest expansion test was selected to test the mobility of the rib cage [ 12 , 13 ]. While in a seated position, the patient was asked to breathe in gradually through the nose, using lung expansion to push the measuring tape as much as possible, then to breathe out through the mouth as completely as possible.…”

Investigating the Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Exercises on Chest Mobility, Upright Sitting Height, and Quality of Life in Obese Women

“…Therefore, it is crucial to identify factors and measures that can improve the efficiency of the diaphragm. Numerous studies have shown a correlation between the activity of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles and respiratory and postural function [15][16][17]. Many experts argue that maintaining proper posture is essential for regular respiratory function [18].…”

“…To achieve success in any corrective or rehabilitation program that focuses on the movement system, it is important to consider retraining and correcting faulty respiratory patterns. Accordingly, to effectively perform breathing exercises, it is necessary to train in the corrective program under different conditions [9,16,17,19]. The dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) method, which is based on developmental kinesiology models, can achieve these goals [20,21].…”