Diaphragmatic Training for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercise and Incentive Spirometry Training on Esophageal Function and Quality of Life

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of diaphragm-focused breathing training on adults with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The study compares two non-invasive breathing methods: diaphragmatic breathing exercise (DBE) and volume-oriented incentive spirometry (VIS). It aims to see how these interventions impact GERD symptoms, esophageal acid exposure, lower esophageal sphincter pressure, esophageal movement, and quality of life compared to usual care. The trial is randomized and includes a control group receiving standard medical management. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups: DBE, VIS, or control. The DBE group practices slow, deep breathing with abdominal expansion twice daily for about 20 minutes over six weeks. The VIS group uses a spirometry device to perform slow, deep inhalations with breath-holding twice daily for the same duration. Both interventions begin with supervised training followed by home practice. The control group continues usual GERD care without breathing training. During the study, participants complete baseline and post-intervention assessments, including symptom questionnaires and tests of esophageal function. They keep daily diaries to record symptoms and adherence to training. Researchers will measure changes in acid exposure time, lower esophageal sphincter pressure, esophageal motility parameters, and quality of life scores from the start to the end of the six-week intervention period. Weekly phone calls support adherence and address any difficulties throughout the study.

Diaphragmatic Training on GERD