RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07488741

Comparison of the Effects of Different Chest Techniques on University Students With Smoking Addiction

Comparison of the Effects of Chest PNF Techniques and Chest Mobility Exercises on Respiratory Function, Chest Expansion, and Functional Capacity in University Students With Smoking Addiction: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Study

Sponsor

University of Yalova

Enrollment

30 participants

Start Date

Mar 9, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Smoking

Summary

Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart, lung, and respiratory system diseases, and is particularly prevalent among young people and university students. In Turkey, tobacco use is high in the 15-24 age group, and smoking rates among university students are reported to be between 20% and 43%. Besides causing COPD and other respiratory diseases, smoking negatively impacts performance by increasing fatigue, dyspnea, and pain during exercise. It impairs lung function, reducing respiratory volumes such as FVC and FEV1. PNF and chest mobility exercises targeting the chest area can improve respiratory parameters by increasing respiratory muscle function and thoracic mobility. Recent studies show that chest PNF techniques have positive effects on lung function, chest expansion, and some physiological parameters, especially in smokers.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 24 Years

Inclusion Criteria7

Age of 18-24 years
Fagerström Nicotine Dependence Questionnaire score ≥4
Smoking for at least 2 years
Daily smoking ≥5 cigarettes and at least 90 pack-years. Stable condition (no acute respiratory infection in the last 4 weeks).
FEV1 ≥80%
Voluntary participation in the study
No orthopedic or neurological problems that would prevent participation in exercise

Exclusion Criteria4

Cardiac event or lung surgery in the last 6 months
Respiratory problems such as COPD, asthma
Orthopedic and neurological problems
Termination of volunteering

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Interventions

OTHERChest PNF Techniques Group

The combined isotonic contraction technique will be used to improve respiratory control. In all positions, the patient is asked to exhale first. Pressure and stretching are applied in the opposite direction of the movement. As the patient inhales, resistance is controlled. Supine position: Both hands are placed on the sternum and oblique downward pressure is applied. The hands are placed parallel and diagonally along the lateral chest wall, above the lower ribs. To focus on the upper chest region, the hands are similarly placed on the pectoral muscles. Side-lying position: Both hands are placed parallel and diagonally along the lateral chest wall above the lower ribs. This position is beneficial to resist chest movement in the lower region and thus distribute the force to chest movement in the upper region. Prone position: The hands are placed parallel and diagonally along the lower ribs. In the forearm position, one hand is placed on the sternum and the other on the intercostal region

OTHERChest Mobility Exercises Group

Chest rotation, Passive lateral flexion while lying on the side, Mobilization of the thoracic facet joint while lying on the back, Trunk rotation in sitting position, Moving the arm in front of the chest while sitting, Cat-camel exercise, Pectoral stretch, Chest mobility in crawling position.