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
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.
• 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