Related Experiment Videos
Head position and its effect on pulmonary function in tetraplegic patients
C Amodie-Storey1, M S Nash, P M Roussell
1Department of Physical Therapy, University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Rehabilitation Center, FL 33136, USA.
Spinal Cord
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Altering head position impacts pulmonary function in tetraplegic individuals, with habitual postures generally yielding better results. Temporary postural changes can negatively affect lung capacity and ventilation in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Tetraplegia, resulting from spinal cord injuries, often leads to impaired respiratory muscle function.
- Head and neck posture can influence respiratory mechanics and pulmonary function.
- Understanding these influences is crucial for optimizing respiratory care in individuals with tetraplegia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of orthostatic position of the head (OPH) on pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in individuals with tetraplegia.
- To compare pulmonary function in habitual versus experimentally altered head postures.
- To determine if habitual forward head posture influences the impact of OPH on PFTs.
Main Methods:
- A one-group pre-post test design was employed.
- Fifteen subjects with chronic C4-C7 spinal cord injuries participated.
- Pulmonary function tests were conducted in habitual and experimentally altered head postures using postural supports.
Main Results:
- Changing head posture significantly affected forced vital capacity and 12-second maximum voluntary ventilation.
- Mid-forced expiratory flow and forced inspiratory vital capacity were not altered by head position changes.
- Pulmonary function was best in the subjects' habitual postures when altered head positions had an effect.
Conclusions:
- Temporary postural alterations affecting OPH can adversely affect pulmonary function in tetraplegic patients.
- Sufficient time for muscular adaptation appears necessary to mitigate negative effects of postural changes.
- Habitual posture may be optimal for pulmonary function in this population, though resting PFTs did not differ based on forward head posture prevalence.