The Impact of Intercostal Stretch Technique and Aerobic Dance on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients.

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with reduced cardiopulmonary function, decreased aerobic capacity, and increased respiratory complications. Effective non-pharmacological interventions are essential to improve exercise tolerance and overall health in diabetic individuals.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of intercostal stretching techniques combined with aerobic dance exercises on VO₂ max and chest tightness in male patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A total of 30 male participants, aged 30-50 years, with T2DM were enrolled in a 12-week intervention involving intercostal stretching and aerobic dance exercises for 60 minutes, -three to five days per week. Pre- and post-intervention assessments of VO₂ max (mL/kg/min) and chest tightness (modified Borg dyspnea scale) were performed using spirometry and standardized scales. Paired t-tests were conducted to analyze the differences.

RESULTS

Post-intervention analysis revealed a significant increase in VO₂ max (mean difference = 13.4 ± 5.577, t = 13.159, P < 0.001) and a significant reduction in chest tightness scores (mean difference = 2.233 ± 1.524, t = 8.025, P < 0.001). These improvements were statistically highly significant compared to the critical t-value (2.15) at 29 degrees of freedom.

CONCLUSION

The combination of intercostal stretching and aerobic dance significantly enhanced cardiopulmonary function, increased VO₂ max, and reduced respiratory discomfort in male patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. These findings support the integration of such exercise protocols into diabetes management programs to improve functional capacity and quality of life.