Subjects were treated on two non-consecutive days of the second week of a course of in-patient antibiotic therapy in a cross-over fashion. On the exercise and physiotherapy day, subjects exercised 60 min before physiotherapy. On the physiotherapy alone day, subjects rested for 60 min instead of exercising. Physiotherapy was administered on both study days (postural drainage, percussion, deep breathing, vibrations, forced expiratory technique and coughing).
Outcome measures
Lung function tests were performed at baseline, after exercise or rest and again immediately and 30 min after physiotherapy. Sputum weights were measured in the 60 min of exercise or rest (period A) and for the 60 min physiotherapy period and 30 min after physiotherapy (period B)
Main results
Mean total sputum expectoration (period A and B) was 14 g on physiotherapy alone and 21.5 g (4.8) on exercise and physiotherapy (mean difference 7.5 g, 95% CI 1.4-13.6 g, P = 0.02). Mean sputum weights during period A (i.e. rest vs. exercise) on physiotherapy alone and exercise and physiotherapy were 2.6 and 7 g respectively (mean difference 4.4 g, 95% CI-0.07-8.8 g, P = 0.053).
Keywords: Adolescent; Adult; Airway clearance technique; Drainage; exercise; non pharmacological intervention - devices OR physiotherapy; pharmacological_intervention; Postural Drainage; percussion; Chest physiotherapy; forced expiration technique; Active Cycle of Breathing Technique -ACBT-;