TITLE:
Respiratory Physiotherapy in a Web Browser, Feasibility Study
AUTHORS:
Matevz Leskovsek, Martin Lasič, Dragomira Ahlin
KEYWORDS:
COPD; Asthma; Respiratory Physiotherapy; Breathing Exercises
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Respiratory Diseases,
Vol.3 No.4,
October
17,
2013
ABSTRACT: In this paper, feasibility of web based breathing exercises
for respiratory rehabilitation is examined. A system included visual guidance
in a web browser and a microphone equipped headset for biofeedback and
interaction. Feasibility was assessed in a controlled environment on 34
subjects with anxiety disorders that were not offered any help from the personnel.
Weak points of comprehensibility were identified as applying headset (21%) and
adhering to breathing exercises instructions (7%). No adverse events were
identified. Design flaws that correlated with poor user’s experience were 1)
the unpleasant feelings induced by watching the computer screen (21%) and 2)
ease/difficulty of physically applying headset (14%). We conclude that
conducting breathing exercises by using an acoustic microphone and a web
browser is feasible and should be further researched. Additionally we conclude
that audio feedback might be more pleasant to some people.