Development of a Mobile App Game for Practicing Lung Exercises: Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation
• Medical Device Development

Background:

• Chest injuries are a significant cause of mortality and morbidity, leading to complications like lung deflation.
• Effective breathing management is crucial for recovery, but mobile-based lung exercise gaming apps are lacking.
• Existing pulmonary rehabilitation methods could be enhanced with engaging, accessible digital tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a mobile application game for lung exercise practice.
• To create and integrate a prototype device, the Pulmo device, with the mobile game.
• To evaluate user satisfaction and feasibility of the developed app and device.

Main Methods:

• A research and development methodology with 4 steps was employed.
• 110 general public participants were recruited for the study.
• User satisfaction and feasibility were assessed using questionnaires for the mobile app and prototype device.

Main Results:

• Participants reported high overall satisfaction with the mobile app game and Pulmo device (mean 4.4).
• High feasibility ratings were observed for both the mobile app and the connected prototype device (mean 4.4).
• The study indicated positive user perception regarding the practical application of the gamified lung exercises.

Conclusions:

• The mobile app game and Pulmo device show promise for gamified lung rehabilitation.
• Positive user feedback suggests potential practical utility in promoting lung exercises.
• Further clinical validation is necessary to confirm efficacy in patients requiring pulmonary rehabilitation.