Shobana R, Srihari R, Bagavad Geetha M, Padmavathi R
Department of Physiology, Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Institute, Porur, Chennai

Abstract

• Background: Flute playing requires continuous control of the airflow and high capacity of the lungs. Studies have proven that playing wind instruments improves respiratory muscle strength and that it is beneficial in bronchial asthma and obstructive sleep apnea. As there is a dearth of studies on pulmonary function among flutists specifically, and as flute playing is an important part of Indian music, we were interested in evaluating the effect of flute playing on selective pulmonary parameters in a group of flutists in our setting.
• Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of flute playing on pulmonary function by measuring the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), breath holding time (BHT) and chest expansion.
• Materials and Methods: Healthy male flute players (15) from BILVAA music academy, Chennai and non-flutists (15) in the age group of 15 to 30 years were recruited. PEFR, BHT and chest expansion were recorded and analyzed statistically.
• Results: There was no significant difference in the anthropometric measurements like height, weight, BMI and neck circumference among flutists and non­ flutists. There was a significant difference (p<0.001) in the PEFR values (flutists: 478.0 ± 87.12 I/min and non-flutists 297.33 ± 101.6 I/min) and BHT values (flutists: 58.07 seconds and non-flutists: 30.07 seconds). Chest expansion was also significantly higher in flutists.
• Conclusion: This pilot study shows an increased PEFR, BHT and chest expansion among flutists which could imply improved pulmonary function. However further detailed studies involving larger sample sizes are required for confirmation.

Keywords: breath holding time, flute, peak expiratory flow rate, pulmonary functions