The Effect of a Selective Exercise Program on Motor Competence and Pulmonary Function of Asthmatic Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background Physical activity in asthmatic children may be useful. But there is not adequate knowledge about it. In present study the effect of selective exercise on motor competency and pulmonary function in asthmatic pediatrics was evaluated. Materials and Methods In a randomized clinical trial study,fifteen asthmatic children aged 6 to 18 years were included. Patients were randomly divided into the experimental or control group. There was no difference in the routine pharmacotherapy. The aerobic group had an exercise program consisting of 45-minute sessions three times per week for 8 weeks. The outcome measures were the difference between the pre- and post-exercise program and also the experimental and control groups. Spirometry parameters (such as FEV1and FVC) were measured. Motor competency was measured by the Ozeretski test. Quality of life was evaluated by St. George's questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 16.0). Results: A significant effect was observed for spirometry parameters, quality of life and the Ozeretski test in two studied groups. Aerobic exercise had a significant effect in improving FEF 25-75%, quality of life and the fine and gross motor performance in the experimental group (P< 0.05).  A significant difference was observed between two groups for FEF, FEF25-75% and quality of life (P< 0.05). Conclusion Regular exercise improves the spirometric parameters and quality of life in studied asthmatic children. In present study, aerobic exercise and strength training were useful complementary means for the treatment of asthmatic children.