Effects of Papworth Breathing With or Without Bridge Pose Yoga in Asthma Patients

NCT07440953 | Completed

• 1 other identifier: REC/RCR/&AHS/24/0387
• Study Type: interventional
• Target: 58
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

Brief Summary

Asthma is a chronic condition causing airway inflammationandconstriction, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, andchest tightness. While medication is the primary treatment,complementary techniques like Papworth breathing and Bridge Pose yoga are gaining recognition for improving respiratory health and quality of life. Papworth breathing fo cuses on slow, controlled diaphragmatic breathing to reduce anxiety and improve breathing patterns. Bridge Pose yoga opens the chest and strengthens the back, promoting deeper breathing. This study examines the effects of these techniques on asthma symptoms,lung function, chest expansion, and quality of life over 8 weeks. The study will run for 8 weeks. It will divide participants into two groups:one practicing only Pap-worth breathing, and the other combining it with Bridge Pose Yoga. Each group will have sessions 5 times a week treatment by the Papworth method. Measurements will be taken before and after the intervention to evaluate changes in shortness of breath(BORG Scale), lung function (such as FEV1 and FVCandFEV1/FVC via digital spirometer), chest expansion and quality of life (AQLQ). By comparing these outcomes, this study aims to determine if the combined approach of Pap-worth breathing and Bridge Pose Yoga leadstogreaterbenefits in managing dyspnea, enhancing lung function, andimprovingquality of life. These insights may contribute to enhance chest expansion,and thus relive bronchospasm in asthma patients.

Conditions

Asthma

Keywords

Asthma; Papworth breathing; Bridge Pose Yoga(SetuBandha Sarvangasana); Shortness of breath; Lung function; Chest expansion; QoL

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (6)

• Modified Borg Dyspnea Scale

  It is a subjective tool to assess degree of dyspnea in patients. The comprise of 10 grades starting from zero to 10. Zero refers to 'No difficulty in breathing at all 'and 10 refers to 'maximal difficulty ' Readings will be taken at Pre-post intervention.

  8 weeks

• FEV1

  digital spirometer device will be used to take readings of lung volumes in (ml). These measurements are part of a pulmonary function test, which helps diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis. Readings will be taken at Pre-post intervention.

  8 weeks

• FVC

  digital spirometer device will be used to take readings of lung capacities in (ml). These measurements are part of a pulmonary function test, which helps diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis. Readings will be taken at Pre-post intervention.

  8 weeks

• FEV1/FVC

  digital spirometer device will be used to take readings of FEV1/FVC. Readings will be taken at Pre-post intervention.

  8 weeks

• Chest Expansion

  Tape measure will be used to take readings of chest expasion before and after intervention, at sternal, axila and xiphoid process. then average will be taken

  8 weeks

• Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ)

  The Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) is a validated tool designed to measure the impact of asthma on a person's daily life. Developed by Dr. Elizabeth Juniper, it assesses four key areas: symptoms, activity limitations, emotional function, and environmental stimuli sensitivity. Comprising 32 items, the AQLQ is used in both clinical practice and research to evaluate treatment efficacy and monitor patients' well-being over time. Responses are scored on a 7-point scale, with lower scores indicating greater impairment, making it an essential instrument for understanding patient-centered outcomes in asthma management

  8 weeks

Study Arms (2)

Group A: Papeworth Breathing

EXPERIMENTAL

Frequency: Participants attended sessions 2-3 times per week for 8 weeks. Intensity: Each session was conducted at a moderate intensity, focusing on controlled, diaphragmatic breathing techniques to regulate breathing patterns and reduce breathlessness. Time: Each session lasted approximately 15-20 minutes, with time allocated to practice diaphragmatic breathing, nose breathing, breath control, and relaxation exercises Type: The intervention consisted of the Papworth breathing technique, which included diaphragmatic breathing, nose breathing, breath counting and control, and relaxation exercises. Each component was practiced under the guidance of a trained therapist.

Other: Papeworth Breathing

Group B: Pap-worth Breathing + Bridge Pose Yoga

EXPERIMENTAL

Frequency: Sessions were held 5 times per week for 8 weeks, similar to Group 1. Intensity: Participants engaged in moderate-intensity breathing exercises and yoga postures. Emphasis was placed on controlled breathing during the Bridge Pose toenhance chest opening and increase lung capacity. Time: Each session lasted around 30 minutes, combining approximately 15-20 minutes of Papworth breathing with 5-10 minutes dedicated to practicing the Bridge Pose Type: This group's intervention included both Papworth breathing techniques and the Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana). The Bridge Pose involved lying on the back with knees bent, lifting the hips on inhalation, and focusing on slow, controlled breathing throughout the pose. The pose was held for 15-30 seconds and repeated multiple times

Other: Pap-worth Breathing + Bridge Pose Yoga

Interventions

Papeworth Breathing OTHER

Method: The Papworth technique was a structured breathing method designed to help individuals manage respiratory issues and anxiety through controlled, mindful breathing. Practitioners started by sitting comfortably, placing a hand on their abdomen to feel diaphragmatic movement, ensuring that future breaths originated from the abdomen rather than the chest. They inhaled deeply and slowly through the nose, allowing the abdomen to expand, then exhaled gently, maintaining a steady rhythm of about 8-12 breaths per minute. Nasal breathing was emphasized to filter and regulate airflow, while relaxation techniques helped release body tension. As they continued, practitioners adjusted their breathing to match different levels of activity or stress, using slow, controlled breaths to manage hyperventilation. With consistent practice, this method promoted calmness, improved respiratory efficiency, and reduced symptoms of asthma and anxiety, enhancing future breathing control and resilience.

Group A: Papeworth Breathing

Pap-worth Breathing + Bridge Pose Yoga OTHER

Method: In the Bridge Pose, or Setu Bandhasana, practitioners began by lying on their back with knees bent and feet hip-width apart on the floor, keeping arms alongside the body with palms down. They positioned their feet close enough for their fingertips to touch their heels. As they inhaled, they pressed their feet into the ground, engaging the glutes to lift the hips toward the ceiling, maintaining alignment with knees over heels. Shoulders were tucked slightly under the back to support the lift, and hands could clasp beneath the pelvis if comfortable. Practitioners breathed deeply and held the position for 15-30 breaths, focusing on elevating the chest and hips with each inhale while keeping the face and neck relaxed. On an exhale, they released by gently lowering the hips back to the floor, allowing the spine to rest before moving on. This practice helped enhance flexibility, strength, and spinal alignment over time.

Group B: Pap-worth Breathing + Bridge Pose Yoga

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 15 Years - 20 Years
• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: Yes
• Age Groups: Child (0-17), Adult (18-64)

You may qualify if:

• Age 15-20 years with a confirmed diagnosis of asthma.
• Both male and female
• Mild to moderate patients with FEV1 60-80% according to GINA
• Willing to participate and provide consent form, with parental consent if under 18 years
• Individuals with stable asthma conditions

You may not qualify if:

• Patients with severe asthma or co-existing respiratory diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
• Any recent upper respiratory tract infections that could interfere with the intervention.
• Individuals with physical disabilities, orthopedic, or musculoskeletal issues that would hinder safe participation in yoga poses.
• Participants with known cardiovascular conditions (e.g., hypertension, arrhythmias, or heart failure) that may be exacerbated by physical or breathing exercises.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Riphah International University: lead

Study Sites (1)

DHQ Muzaffargarh

Muzaffargarh, Punjab Province, 24200, Pakistan

Location

Related Publications (6)

• Martin J, Townshend J, Brodlie M. Diagnosis and management of asthma in children. BMJ Paediatr Open. 2022 Apr;6(1):e001277. doi: 10.1136/bmjpo-2021-001277.

  PMID: 35648804 BACKGROUND

• Pijnenburg MW, Fleming L. Advances in understanding and reducing the burden of severe asthma in children. Lancet Respir Med. 2020 Oct;8(10):1032-1044. doi: 10.1016/S2213-2600(20)30399-4. Epub 2020 Sep 7.

  PMID: 32910897 BACKGROUND

• Bacharier LB, Jackson DJ. Biologics in the treatment of asthma in children and adolescents. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2023 Mar;151(3):581-589. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.01.002. Epub 2023 Jan 24.

  PMID: 36702649 BACKGROUND

• Gupta A, Bush A, Nagakumar P. Asthma in children during the COVID-19 pandemic: lessons from lockdown and future directions for management. Lancet Respir Med. 2020 Nov;8(11):1070-1071. doi: 10.1016/S2213-2600(20)30278-2. Epub 2020 Jun 25. No abstract available.

  PMID: 32593314 BACKGROUND

• Santino TA, Chaves GS, Freitas DA, Fregonezi GA, Mendonca KM. Breathing exercises for adults with asthma. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020 Mar 25;3(3):CD001277. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD001277.pub4.

  PMID: 32212422 BACKGROUND

• Guarnieri G, Pozza M, Vianello A. The role of pulmonary rehabilitation in severe asthma: a comprehensive review. Front Med (Lausanne). 2025 Oct 28;12:1709710. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2025.1709710. eCollection 2025.

  PMID: 41229512 BACKGROUND

MeSH Terms

Conditions

Asthma; Dyspnea

Condition Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Bronchial Diseases; Respiratory Tract Diseases; Lung Diseases, Obstructive; Lung Diseases; Respiratory Hypersensitivity; Hypersensitivity, Immediate; Hypersensitivity; Immune System Diseases; Respiration Disorders; Signs and Symptoms, Respiratory; Signs and Symptoms; Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms

Study Officials

• Hafiza Muriam Ghani, MSCPPT

  Riphah International University

  PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR

Study Design

• Study Type: interventional
• Phase: not applicable
• Allocation: RANDOMIZED
• Masking: SINGLE
• Who Masked: PARTICIPANT
• Purpose: SUPPORTIVE CARE
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: SPONSOR

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: February 23, 2026
• First Posted: February 27, 2026
• Study Start: February 10, 2024
• Primary Completion: December 25, 2025
• Study Completion: December 25, 2025
• Last Updated: February 27, 2026

Record last verified: 2026-02

Data Sharing

• IPD Sharing: Will not share

Locations

PA (1)