Effectiveness of Prone Position for Parkinsonian Respiration

The present study examined the effectiveness of prone position for respiratory dysfunction of patients with parkinsonism. Ten patients with parkinsonism (10 with restrictive and 9 with obstructive pulmonary dysfunctions) were asked to maintain prone position on elbows on a triangular mat 20 cm high for 10 min, and their respiratory function and thoracic distensibility were measured. The measurement position was a static supine position with lower extremities flexed, and respiratory function was measured by a spirometer. Thoracic distensibility was evaluated by a difference in thoracic circumference (points of axilla, papilla, and xiphoid process) between the maximum inspiration and expiration. After 10-min prone position, the patients showed significant increases in %VC, FEV1.0%, and thoracic distensibility. The results confirmed that respiratory management of prone position is simple and effective for patients with parkinsonism.