Published Paper Details:

Introduction: Lifestyle factors and environmental pollution are known to negatively impact respiratory function. The Manual Diaphragm Release Technique (MDRT) aims to enhance chest wall mobility by stretching diaphragmatic muscle fibers, while the Diaphragmatic Stretch Technique (DST) promotes diaphragm relaxation to optimize its contraction-relaxation efficiency and thoracoabdominal pressure dynamics. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) serves as a rapid, reliable measure reflecting overall pulmonary function. This study compared the immediate effects of MDRT and DST on PEFR in healthy college going students. Methods: This comparative, randomized study included 40 college students from Ahmedabad, conveniently sampled and randomly divided into two groups (n=20 each). Group A received MDRT (supine position, involving upward-lateral traction during inspiration and deep inward pressure during expiration). Group B received DST (sitting position, involving gentle upward traction under the subcostal margin during inspiration). Both interventions were performed for 2 sets of 5 breaths with a 1-minute rest. PEFR was recorded in standing using a Mini Wright Peak Flow Meter pre- and post-intervention. Results: The data was analyzed using SPSS Version 27.0 after confirming normal distribution through the Shapiro-Wilk test. Since all variables met normality assumptions, parametric tests were applied. The Paired t-test showed a statistically significant improvement in PEFR within both the MDRT group (p < 0.001) and the DST group (p < 0.001). However, the Independent t-test comparing the post-intervention PEFR values between the two groups showed no statistically significant difference (p = 0.661). This indicates that both therapeutic techniques produced comparable immediate effects on expiratory flow. Conclusion: MDRT and DST both produced immediate improvements in PEFR among college-going students, but neither technique proved superior. Both interventions can be safely applied to enhance respiratory performance.