Box breathing technique combined with pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD

Plain-English translation of NCT07518472 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated April 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether a specific breathing technique called box breathing—combined with a short 3-week pulmonary rehabilitation program—can help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) feel less short of breath and improve their ability to do everyday activities. You'll be randomly assigned to either receive the standard 3-week rehabilitation program alone, or the same program plus daily box breathing practice at home. The goal is to see if adding this simple breathing method makes a real difference in how you feel and function.

Current long-term rehabilitation programs for COPD work well but require a big time commitment, which makes many patients quit. Researchers want to know if a shorter 3-week program can be just as helpful, especially when paired with an easy, daily breathing exercise that people can do at home.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 40 and 65 years old
you have been diagnosed with mild-stage COPD
you experience shortness of breath with everyday activity but can still walk and do things (mild to moderate dyspnea)
you are willing to attend two supervised sessions per week for 3 weeks

You likely don't qualify if…

you are currently experiencing a sudden flare-up or acute worsening of your COPD symptoms
you have been diagnosed with a recent acute infection such as pneumonia or tuberculosis
you have a bone, joint, or muscle condition that would prevent you from safely exercising
you have difficulty understanding or following medical instructions

What participation looks like

You will visit a physiotherapist twice per week for 3 weeks (6 sessions total). During these visits, you'll learn and practice breathing exercises and gentle physical activity tailored to your lung condition. If you're in the box breathing group, you'll also practice a simple breathing technique called box breathing at home every day and keep a diary to track your practice. The whole study lasts about 3 weeks, and you'll continue your regular COPD medications throughout.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 20, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

Pakistan

Foundation University Islamabad, Islamabad