Respiratory Physiotherapy in a Web Browser, Feasibility Study

Abstract

In this paper, feasibility of web based breathing exercises for respiratory rehabilitation is examined. A system included visual guidance in a web browser and a microphone equipped headset for biofeedback and interaction. Feasibility was assessed in a controlled environment on 34 subjects with anxiety disorders that were not offered any help from the personnel. Weak points of comprehensibility were identified as applying headset (21%) and adhering to breathing exercises instructions (7%). No adverse events were identified. Design flaws that correlated with poor user's experience were 1) the unpleasant feelings induced by watching the computer screen (21%) and 2) ease/difficulty of physically applying headset (14%). We conclude that conducting breathing exercises by using an acoustic microphone and a web browser is feasible and should be further researched. Additionally we conclude that audio feedback might be more pleasant to some people.

Human-computer interactions in speech therapy using a blowing interface

“…In [9] authors proposed using dedicated microphone to perform breathing exercises using conducting pursed lip breathing [10]. The performed experiments showed that conducting pursed lip breathing exercises by using an acoustic microphone in front of user's mouth is feasible and should be further researched.…”

Breathing Television: A Breathing Controlled Multimedia Player for Reducing Breathing Rate

“…To detect exhalation through pursed lips, a microphone equipped headset was used [25]- [27]. Breathing controlled television was designed using Adobe Flash and YouTube API with the following algorithm (Figure 2 When exhalation through pursed lips is detected, a video playback begins.…”