COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTS OF DEEP AND SLOW BREATHING EXERCISES AND SUBOCCIPITAL RELEASE, ADDED TO ROUTINE PHYSIOTHERAPY AND REHABILITATION, ON AUTONOMIC, MOTOR, AND COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS AND EMOTIONAL STATUS IN STROKE PATIENTS

Deep, slow breathing exercises have been reported in the literature to positively affect lung function, balance, and gait. Studies have also shown that slow and deep breathing can improve cognitive function. Current evidence indicates that these exercises significantly enhance baroreflex function, heart rate variability (HRV), and blood pressure regulation, as well as improve sleep quality and emotional conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

Suboccipital relaxation has been identified as a beneficial therapeutic approach for improving balance and gait ability in individuals with chronic stroke. Additionally, cervical mobilization has been suggested as a supportive intervention in stroke rehabilitation. Suboccipital relaxation is noteworthy due to its potential to influence the parasympathetic nervous system, which plays a key role in regulating various bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and stress responses. Furthermore, the combined use of cervical joint mobilization and diaphragmatic breathing in individuals with chronic stroke has been reported to improve lung function and craniovertebral angle.

Although the literature reports positive effects of deep, slow breathing exercises and suboccipital relaxation individually, these methods have primarily been studied separately. To date, no study has evaluated their combined or comparative effects in stroke rehabilitation. In this respect, the present study is both clinically and methodologically novel. It aims to generate scientific evidence for multidimensional recovery processes after stroke, provide a theoretical and practical foundation for the development of comprehensive rehabilitation protocols, and ultimately contribute to reducing the global burden of stroke.