IMPROVED LUNG-FUNCTION BY VOJTA-THERAPY I N BRONCHOPULMONARY DYSPLASIA

We studied pulmonary mechanics both before and 45 minutes after chest physiotherapy according to Vojta in 11 spontaneously breathing infants (birth weight < 1500 gm, mean age at time of study 16 weeks, range 9- 26 weeks) with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). The physiotherapist e xerted a pressure with his thumb onto the 6th anterior rib at the leve l of the midclavicular line in the direction of the spine for several minutes. The full reflex response that was required according to the s tudy protocol consisted of the typical change in whole-body positionin g with an extension of the spine, chest expansion, and a contraction o f the abdominal wall muscles. We measured continuosly the airflow of s pontaneous breathing with a pneumotachometer and the esophageal pressu re with a miniature pressure sensor. The signals were online digitized and processed by a computer, For each measurement, at least 80 breath ing cycles were evaluated. After Vojta's therapy, lung compliance was higher (P = 0.006, paired t-test). and the ratio work of breathing per tidal volume was smaller (P = 0,002), Airway resistance, tidal volume , and minute ventilation did not change. We conclude that Vojta's ther apy may transiently improve pulmonary mechanics and reduce work of bre athing in infants with BPD, We therefore suggest to implement Vojta's therapy in the management of BPD.