Effect of Video Game-Based Lung Volume Increasing Training on Respiratory Mechanics in Children With Developmental Delays: Randomized Controlled Study

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of video game-based lung volume increasing training on respiratory mechanics in children with developmental delays. Individuals with special needs are people who, for various reasons, show significant awareness at the level expected from their peers in terms of their individual characteristics and educational qualifications. Individuals with special needs constitute an important part of our country. Children with special needs may have respiratory problems that may or may not be recognized because they are not diagnosed, as well as decreases in respiratory capacity. Decrease in lung volumes may be encountered in children with special needs with various diagnoses such as neuromuscular diseases, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, autism, and Down syndrome.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary program that balances or reverses the physiopsychopathology of pulmonary disorders and tries to help the patient reach high functional capacity as much as his physical condition and pulmonary disability allow. Chest physiotherapy, which is an important step of pulmonary rehabilitation, is a rehabilitation intervention used to reduce airway resistance, improve gas exchange and facilitate breathing in children. Active video game systems produced with the development of new technologies are used for the positive progression of rehabilitation, especially in young individuals who are extensive users of digital devices. For children who need a pulmonary rehabilitation program, active video game systems are preferred in the clinic as they increase the compatibility of the sessions and ensure continuity.