The role of visual feedback in respiratory muscle activation and pulmonary function

J Phys Ther Sci. 2015 Sep;27(9):2883-6. doi: 10.1589/jpts.27.2883. Epub 2015 Sep 30.

Abstract

[Purpose] It is well known that visual feedback is an important factor contributing to balance and postural control. Nevertheless, there has been little discussion about the effects of visual feedback on pulmonary function. This study was conducted to investigate the role of visual feedback on respiratory muscle activation and pulmonary function. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 37 healthy adults who consented to participate in this study. The study measured the muscular activation of the trunk and pulmonary function according to the absence or presence of visual feedback. [Results] The results revealed significant changes in muscular activation and pulmonary function with the use of visual feedback. [Conclusion] These findings suggest that visual feedback may play a role in increasing respiratory muscle activity and pulmonary function.

Keywords: Pulmonary function; Respiratory muscles; Visual feedback.