Comparing Autogenic Drainage and Mechanical Percussion for Lung Function and Quality of Life in Children Ages 6 to 12 with Cystic Fibrosis

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare the effects of autogenic drainage and mechanical percussion on lung function, breathlessness, and quality of life in children aged 6 to 12 with cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder causing thick mucus buildup in the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and lung damage. The study seeks to find which airway clearance technique better improves respiratory health and daily living for these children. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one receiving therapist-guided autogenic drainage, a controlled breathing technique to move mucus from small to large airways, and the other receiving mechanical chest percussion using a device that creates rhythmic vibrations to loosen mucus. Both groups will have supervised treatment sessions lasting about 10 minutes, five times per week, over six weeks. During the study, participants will have lung function measured by spirometry tests FEV1 and FVC, breathlessness assessed using the Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale, and quality of life evaluated with the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised before and after the treatment period. Researchers will analyze these results to see which technique provides greater benefits. The study may help improve airway clearance methods for children with cystic fibrosis and enhance their respiratory health and well-being.

Autogenic Drainage Versus Mechanical Percussion in Children With Cystic Fibrosis