Effects of Liuzijue Qigong on respiratory function among patients with Parkinson's disease: a randomized clinical trial.

Background: Respiratory dysfunction is a common nonmotor symptom in patients with Parkinson's disease that may be easily overlooked. Incorporating respiratory function rehabilitation into routine rehabilitation programs for these patients is important. However, previous studies have focused primarily on professional devices and training processes that require additional professional guidance, making wide implementation challenging.

Methods: In this assessor-masked, randomized clinical trial, eligible participants were randomized into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received Liu Zi Jue Qigong exercise for 12 weeks, while the control group underwent conventional rehabilitation exercises. Primary outcomes included measures of respiratory function, such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity(FEV1/FVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP). Secondary outcomes included motor symptoms, quality of life, depression, and anxiety.

Results: The results from a study involving 51 Parkinson's disease patients showed significant improvements in the FVC, FEV1, PEF, and MEP in the experimental group compared to those in the control group after the 12-week intervention. Additionally, there was a noticeable decrease in depression and anxiety scores in the experimental group, with statistically significant reductions compared to those in the control group.

Conclusions: Liuzijue Qigong exercise has the potential to enhance respiratory function and mental health in patients with Parkinson's disease in the early and middle stages. These findings could serve as a valuable reference for implementing home-based rehabilitation techniques for individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2200056762(Retrospectively registered, Registration Date: February 15, 2022).